Maltose

What Maltose is & what it does

Maltose is a naturally occurring sugar made of two glucose units, commonly produced from starch. In cosmetics it serves mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, helping attract and hold moisture at the skin surface. As a simple sugar, it is water-soluble and generally used in low concentrations.

Is Maltose safe in skincare?

Maltose is a simple sugar used in small amounts in cosmetics and is generally considered safe and well tolerated. It is the same type of sugar found in many foods, used here mainly to help hold moisture. Skin reactions to it are uncommon, though individual sensitivity is always possible.

What does Maltose do in skincare?

Maltose works mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent, helping attract and retain moisture at the skin surface. Its water-loving structure makes it useful for supporting a hydrated feel. It is a supporting ingredient rather than an active treatment.

Is Maltose natural or synthetic?

Maltose is a naturally occurring sugar, typically produced from starch such as that found in grains. The cosmetic ingredient may be made through controlled processing of plant starches. Because it is usually plant-derived, it is generally suitable for vegans.

Sunscreens with Maltose

We rate 25 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

• the NewLab. UV Defence Sun Drops SPF 50 88/100
• The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 15 with Antioxidants 83/100
• Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel Multi-vitamin SPF 50+ Pa++++ 82/100
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Airy Hold Cream SPF 50+ Pa++++ 82/100
• Kao Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF 50+ Pa++++ 82/100
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF 50 Pa++++ Cool Edition 81/100
• Biore Aqua Rich Aqua Highlight SPF 50+ PA++++ 79/100
• The Ordinary Mineral Uv Filters Spf 30 With Antioxidants 77/100
• bareMinerals Skinlongevity® Phyto-vitamin C Brightening Moisturizer Mineral SPF 30 74/100
• MyChelle Sun Shield Liquid Tint Spf 50 - Nude 74/100

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