What it is
Galactoarabinan is a highly branched arabinogalactan polysaccharide obtained mainly from larch wood. In formulas it acts as a film former and conditioning agent that can improve the smoothness and even spread of a product, and it is sometimes used to help with the cosmetic feel of sunscreens. It is not a UV filter and contributes no inherent sun protection.
Safety & warnings
Considered well tolerated and non-irritating at typical cosmetic use levels, with a low likelihood of comedogenicity for a water-soluble polysaccharide.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; isolated from the wood of larch trees (Larix species) as a purified water-soluble polysaccharide.
Questions everyone asks
What is galactoarabinan made from?
It is a polysaccharide purified from larch tree wood, supplied as a water-soluble powder.
Does it boost SPF?
It is not a UV filter; it is used as a film former and conditioning agent and can affect how evenly a product spreads.