What it is
Glycogen is a large, highly branched glucose polymer that serves as an energy-storage carbohydrate in living tissue. In cosmetics it is used as a water-binding humectant and conditioning agent that helps keep skin feeling moisturized and smooth. It is frequently included in Japanese moisturizers and sun care formulas.
Safety & warnings
Glycogen is generally well tolerated as a conditioning humectant and is not associated with notable irritation or comedogenicity in cosmetic use.
Origin & sourcing
Cosmetic glycogen is typically sourced from animal tissue such as shellfish, or produced by biotechnological synthesis.
Questions everyone asks
What does glycogen do in skin care?
It acts as a humectant that binds water and a conditioning agent that helps keep skin feeling soft and hydrated.
Where is cosmetic glycogen sourced from?
It is typically obtained from animal tissue such as shellfish or made through biotechnological production.