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In the world of cosmetics and skincare, it is important that we know the ingredients of our products. One of these ingredients, which has been gaining more and more importance recently, is erythritol. Erythritol is a natural sugar alcohol that is used not only in the food industry but also in the cosmetics sector.

What is erythritol?

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol naturally found in some fruits and mushrooms. It is also known as food additive E 968 and is approved as a sweetener in the European Union. Erythritol has the advantage of containing almost no calories and not affecting blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is often used as a sugar substitute in sugar-free or low-calorie foods.

Besides its use in the food industry, erythritol is increasingly used in the cosmetics sector. Here it is mainly used as a humectant and as an ingredient in various skincare products.

Erythritol as a humectant in cosmetics

One of the main reasons erythritol is used in cosmetics is its property as a humectant. Humectants, also called humectants, are ingredients that ensure the skin or hair remains moist and supple. They bind moisture in the products and prevent it from evaporating too quickly.

Erythritol is a very effective humectant because it can attract moisture from the environment and bind it in the skin. It can absorb up to 50% of its own weight in water without becoming sticky or oily. This gives the skin a smooth and well-cared-for feeling.

Moreover, erythritol is a very skin-friendly ingredient. It is neither irritating nor allergenic and is therefore well suited for sensitive skin. Erythritol is also a good option for vegans and vegetarians, as it is purely plant-based.

Additional benefits of erythritol in cosmetics

In addition to its function as a humectant, erythritol offers further benefits in cosmetic products:

Stabilization of the formulation

Erythritol can help improve the consistency and stability of cosmetic products. It helps regulate viscosity and prevent phase separation.

Antioxidant effect

Erythritol also has antioxidant properties that can protect the skin from free radicals. Free radicals can accelerate skin aging, so this protection is important for skin health.

Cooling sensation

Erythritol has a slightly cooling effect on the skin, which can be especially pleasant in products for sensitive skin or after shaving.

Improvement of the skin barrier

Studies have shown that erythritol can strengthen the skin barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss. This can help protect the skin from drying out.

Erythritol in various cosmetic products

Erythritol is used in a variety of cosmetic products. Here are some examples:

Moisturizing creams and lotions

In moisturizing products for face and body, erythritol helps to provide long-lasting hydration and keep the skin supple.

Serums and ampoules

In concentrated care products like serums and ampoules, erythritol can support the effectiveness of other ingredients and improve skin moisture.

Lip care

Erythritol is also used in lip care products such as lip balm or lip gloss to keep the lips soft and smooth.

Hair care

In shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments, erythritol can help retain moisture in the hair and make it smooth.

Deodorants and antiperspirants

Erythritol is also used in deodorants and antiperspirants because it does not dry out the skin.

Conclusion

Erythritol is a versatile and highly effective ingredient that is gaining increasing importance in the cosmetics industry. As a natural humectant with antioxidant properties and a cooling effect, it offers many benefits for the skin. Whether in moisturizing products, hair care, or deodorants – erythritol is an ingredient that is indispensable in modern cosmetic formulations.