Ingredient glossary

Xylitol

INCI: Xylitol

Decent support

A reasonable supporting ingredient. It helps a formula without being the star.

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What it does

  • hydration

moderate evidenceSome cosmetic studies report xylitol-containing formulas improve hydration and barrier recovery while modulating skin microflora.

On a label: usually effective at 1-5%.

Who it's for, and who should skip it

Tends to suit

  • dry
  • dehydrated
  • all

Approach with care

No specific group flagged to avoid it.

  • Clogs poresLow
  • Irritation riskLow

Plays well with

  • humectants
  • prebiotic sugars

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Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.