A sugar humectant. It draws water and supports skin hydration. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A sugar humectant. Safe.
Fucose (INCI: Fucose) is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) that works as a humectant. It draws water into the surface layers and helps keep the skin hydrated. Fucose is also part of some skin glycans, which explains the interest in it for skincare formulas. It is used in serums, creams and masks. On efficacy it is a supporting humectant component. It delivers hydration and a more comfortable feel, but the evidence for more ambitious actions is limited. It works well as part of a moisturizing system rather than as a star active. For topical use it has no systemic relevance and can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is good: low irritation potential and low allergy risk, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. As a humectant, it performs better in formulas that also include an occlusive or emollient to seal the water in.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni 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.
Fucose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Fucose suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A sugar humectant.
The INCI name is Fucose. It may also appear as: Фукоза.
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