Mannan

What Mannan is & what it does

Mannan is a polysaccharide built from mannose sugar units, found in plants, yeast, and certain gums such as konjac. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulas it serves as a thickening, film-forming, and skin-conditioning agent that can give a smooth, slightly gel-like texture. Its sugar-based structure also lends it water-binding, humectant-like properties.

What does Mannan do in skincare?

Mannan is a mannose-based polysaccharide used as a thickening, film-forming, and skin-conditioning agent. It can give formulas a smooth, slightly gel-like texture. Its sugar structure also helps bind water on the skin surface.

Is Mannan safe?

Mannan is a sugar-based polysaccharide widely used in cosmetics and is generally regarded as well tolerated at typical use levels. As with any ingredient, sensitivity varies between individuals. If you have specific concerns, patch testing or asking a professional is a sensible step.

Is Mannan natural or synthetic?

Mannan can be naturally sourced from plants, yeast, or gums such as konjac, though it may also be produced through controlled processing. The source depends on the supplier. Plant- and yeast-derived versions suit botanical formulations.

Sunscreens with Mannan

We rate 18 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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