Rhamnose
Plant monosaccharide. Used as a marketing 'anti-aging sugar'; evidence base is weak.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Simple sugar with claimed anti-aging effects. Humectant like other simple sugars. No proven standalone clinical activity.
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Rhamnose (L-Rhamnose) is a natural methylpentose monosaccharide. Found in plant cell walls and some bacteria, in acacia gum, buckwheat and cassia. Where applied. In cosmetic formulas – as a marketing 'anti-aging sugar' at 0.1-1%. Manufacturers of one commercial complex claim similarity to cytoskeletal proteins and stimulation of collagen synthesis. In Spain it appears in niche anti-aging lines. Evidence base. Direct topical RCTs of rhamnose in humans are isolated and funded by the ingredient suppliers. No independent confirmation of a 'rejuvenating' effect. In vitro lab models show activation of some cell pathways, but the clinical skin relevance is unconfirmed. Safety. CIR has not issued a standalone review for rhamnose, but as a food sugar it is FDA GRAS-classified (Generally Recognized As Safe). Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. No systemic absorption through intact skin. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. A natural food sugar; no restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rhamnose safe during pregnancy?
Rhamnose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Rhamnose for?
Rhamnose suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Rhamnose and what does it do in cosmetics?
Plant monosaccharide.
What's the INCI name for Rhamnose?
The INCI name is Rhamnose. It may also appear as: L-Rhamnose.
See Rhamnose in a product composition right on the store page
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.
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