What it is
Fucose is a six-carbon deoxy sugar found in many natural glycoproteins and polysaccharides, including those in human skin and in certain plant and marine sources. As a small, water-loving sugar it acts as a humectant that helps attract and hold moisture. In sunscreens it serves a conditioning, hydrating role rather than acting as a UV filter.
Safety & warnings
As a simple sugar that is naturally present in skin components, fucose is generally well tolerated and is suitable for sensitive skin. It is water-soluble and not comedogenic, and it is not a known fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
A naturally occurring monosaccharide; obtained by extraction or biotechnological production for cosmetic use.
Questions everyone asks
Is fucose a sugar?
Yes. It is a deoxy sugar (monosaccharide) that functions as a humectant to help hydrate the skin.
Does fucose offer sun protection?
No. It is a hydrating, skin-conditioning ingredient and not a UV filter.