A plant sugar humectant. It draws water and helps soften skin. Well tolerated.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
A functional humectant. Safe.
Xylose (INCI Xylose) is a simple plant sugar from the pentose group, obtained from wood and plant material. In skincare it works as a humectant: it draws in water and holds it in the upper skin layers, helping to soften the surface. On efficacy this is a supporting moisturising ingredient. Sugars deliver basic hydration reasonably well, but this is not a strong standalone active, rather part of a formula's moisturising system. Xylose is sometimes claimed as a prebiotic for the skin microbiome, where the evidence base is still modest. Used topically, xylose has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding without restriction. Tolerance is good. The irritation and allergy potential is low, which suits sensitive skin. Sugars are well familiar to the skin and cause no reaction in most people.
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.
Xylose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Xylose suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
A plant sugar humectant.
The INCI name is Xylose. It may also appear as: Ксилоза.
Published: · updated: