In recent times, Beta-Glucan has been attracting attention for its powerful moisturizing, soothing, and repairing effects on the skin. Many people have created a new trend by incorporating beta-glucan into their skincare routines. This skincare ingredient, less known than hyaluronic acid, is even more potent than hyaluronic acid in its moisturizing properties. Beta-glucan provides great benefits in soothing irritated skin, hydrating the skin, maintaining its moisture balance, and strengthening the skin barrier, making it an extremely attractive option, especially for individuals with sensitive and dry skin types. Your Medical Aesthetic Doctor, Dr. Lida Çiteli, has explained what beta-glucan is, its benefits for the skin, and how to use it in skincare.
What is Beta-Glucan?
Beta-glucan is a natural compound and structurally a type of sugar molecule. Found in everyday foods like mushrooms, yeast, and oats, beta-glucan also works wonders in skincare.
Although our body cannot produce beta-glucan on its own, when used in skincare, it not only provides softness and increases our moisture retention capacity but also strengthens our skin barrier, creating a protective shield. Due to these properties, it is possible to say that beta-glucan is an excellent option for sensitive and dry skin.
Is Beta-Glucan Better Than Hyaluronic Acid?
Both hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan are extremely important for our skin's hydration and maintaining its moisture balance. However, the way they moisturize the skin differs. Hyaluronic acid holds more moisture to keep our skin plump and soft. But beta-glucan can penetrate deeper layers of the skin, providing longer-lasting hydration.
Why Can Beta-Glucan Plump Better?
Beta-Glucan is structurally a larger molecule than hyaluronic acid. However, it is still more successful at reaching the deeper layers of the skin. This helps your skin appear plumper, reducing the look of fine lines and deep wrinkles. As a result, you achieve a smoother complexion. Additionally, it has extra beneficial effects like soothing redness and strengthening the skin barrier, where hyaluronic acid might fall short.
Who Should Use Beta-Glucan in Their Skincare?
Beta-Glucan is generally a suitable choice for individuals with irritation-prone, sensitive, tight, and dry skin. Its most significant effect is providing longer-lasting hydration. If you want your skin not only to be deeply hydrated but also soothed and protected, you can include beta-glucan in your skincare routine.
What Are the Key Benefits of Beta-Glucan for Skin?
Deep Hydration
The most fundamental benefit of beta-glucan for the skin is its ability to enable the skin to retain moisture. It draws in moisture and locks it into your skin. This makes your skin much softer, more hydrated, and smoother. It does so without causing a heavy or greasy feeling.
Barrier Repair
Beta-Glucan helps the skin stay strong. It strengthens the skin barrier, protecting you from environmental pollution. You can particularly benefit from beta-glucan if you feel your skin is tight or damaged.
Soothing Sensitive Skin
If you suffer from redness, eczema, or itching on your skin, beta-glucan reduces irritation. It helps calm and comfort your skin.
Anti-Aging Effects
Beta-glucan contributes to our fight against the signs of aging that appear on our skin. By plumping the skin, we gain both a younger, smoother appearance and freshness. Some studies show that despite being a large molecule, beta-glucan penetrates the deeper layers of the skin more effectively. This enhances beta-glucan's anti-aging effects.
Antioxidant Protection
Beta-glucan protects the skin against damage caused by harmful sun rays and environmental pollution. As a rich antioxidant, regular use of beta-glucan makes the skin resistant to free radicals.
Immunity Boosting
Beta-glucan strengthens the skin's natural immune response against harmful bacteria, helping the skin's defense mechanism function smoothly. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with a weak or damaged skin barrier.
How to Use Beta-Glucan in Skincare?
In Serums, Creams, and Masks
Beta-Glucan is found in various skincare products. It can be present in some hydrating masks, serums, and other moisturizing products. If you particularly want fast absorption and quick results, you can opt for beta-glucan-containing serums.
When and How to Use Beta-Glucan?
A beta-glucan-containing serum can be added to both morning and evening skincare routines. You can apply the serum to your skin after cleansing and before using a moisturizer.
Works More Effectively with Different Skincare Products
One of the most significant advantages of beta-glucan is its compatibility with different skincare products. Products like niacinamide, sunscreen, and retinol can sometimes irritate the skin. However, when beta-glucan is added to the routine, dryness and redness are reduced. Your skincare becomes much more comfortable and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beta-Glucan in Skincare
Is Beta-Glucan Safe for Daily Use?
Yes. Beta-glucan, which soothes rather than irritates the skin, is an extremely safe ingredient for daily use. Therefore, you can include it in both your morning and evening skincare routines. It is an attractive option, especially for individuals with sensitive skin types.
Can I Use Beta-Glucan with Retinol?
Yes. Beta-glucan, effective in reducing skin irritation, redness, and dryness, works in harmony with powerful active ingredients like retinol and enhances their effects.
Does Beta-Glucan Cause Pores to Clog?
No. It is not a comedogenic ingredient. Beta-glucan, being an extremely light molecule, does not lead to clogged pores. On the contrary, it ensures you don't feel oily or heavy while moisturizing.
When Will the Effects of Beta-Glucan Be Seen?
After a few days of use, you'll start to feel your skin more hydrated and soothed. However, long-term benefits, such as a smoother complexion, require several weeks of regular use to become noticeably visible.
Is Beta-Glucan Safe for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin?
Beta-glucan does not clog pores and also helps soothe skin inflammation, making it a safe ingredient even for oily and acne-prone skin.
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