Sunscreen Ranker Independent ranker
Ingredient · INCI reference

Glucose

Glucose is a simple sugar used in skincare as a gentle, water-binding humectant.

What it is

Glucose is a basic sugar that attracts and holds water, so it acts as a humectant that helps keep skin hydrated. It is also used as a base for other sugar-derived ingredients.

Safety & warnings

A simple, very well-tolerated sugar.

Origin & sourcing

A natural sugar, typically derived from starch (e.g. corn).

Questions everyone asks

What does glucose do in skincare?

It is a humectant that draws and holds water to help hydrate the skin.

Is it the same as table sugar?

No, glucose is a single simple sugar, while table sugar (sucrose) is made of two.

Sources & references

Back to all ingredients