Simple sugar, humectant. Pulls water into the stratum corneum; in prebiotic formulas claimed to support the skin microbiome.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Humectant effect is expected for simple sugars. Evidence for topical microbiome effects is limited to marketing-driven studies.
Mannose (D-Mannose) is a simple sugar (monosaccharide), an epimer of glucose. In skin it is part of glycoproteins and proteoglycans of the extracellular matrix. In cosmetics – humectant and prebiotic. Mechanism. Binds water in the stratum corneum. Supports glycoprotein synthesis in the dermis. As a prebiotic it feeds normal skin microbiota and supports microbiome balance. Where applied. Serums and creams for sensitive skin and microbiome dysbiosis, anti-couperose products, post-procedure creams. Concentration 0.5–3%. A rare ingredient in niche and pharmacy cosmetics. Evidence base. Few topical clinical RCTs. The main evidence base for mannose is oral use in urinary tract infections (Cochrane 2022, moderate-quality evidence). Skin evidence is still insufficient. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic.
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.
Mannose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Mannose suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Simple sugar, humectant.
The INCI name is Mannose. It may also appear as: D-Mannose, Манноза.
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