Plant oligosaccharides; a prebiotic. On skin they act as a humectant and support commensal microflora.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Prebiotic with accumulated evidence on microbiome support. Well tolerated, hydrating.
Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are short-chain plant oligosaccharides of 2-10 fructose residues. Sourced from chicory, agave, banana. A prebiotic: substrate for growth of beneficial microbiome bacteria (Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus). On skin. The skin microbiome is a first-line barrier. In atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and acne baseline microbiome diversity is reduced and Staphylococcus aureus or Cutibacterium acnes dominate. FOS act as a humectant (hold moisture) and support commensal flora – selectively feed the "good" bacteria. Where applied. Microbiome-positioned creams and serums, sensitive skin products, shampoos, and hair care. In Spain – La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M (with the microbiome trio: aqua posae filiformis + niacinamide + micro-reservoir), Bioderma Sensibio. Evidence base. Bockmühl 2014 ex vivo and Pondeljak 2020 showed FOS-enriched formulas increase commensal bacterial density by 30-50% over 4 weeks and reduce TEWL in atopic patients. Quality RCTs of topical FOS as a prebiotic are still few. Safety. CIR confirmed safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – safe.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Fructooligosaccharides is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Fructooligosaccharides suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Plant oligosaccharides; a prebiotic.
The INCI name is Fructooligosaccharides. It may also appear as: FOS.
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