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Ingredient · INCI reference

Sucrose

Common table sugar, used in cosmetics as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent.

What it is

Sucrose is the familiar disaccharide of glucose and fructose, the same sugar used in food. In cosmetics it acts as a humectant that helps attract and hold moisture and as a skin-conditioning agent, and it can also serve as a feedstock for sugar-derived ingredients. It is included in sun care and skincare formulas in small amounts to support hydration and texture.

Safety & warnings

Considered very safe and well tolerated as a topical cosmetic ingredient. It is non-comedogenic and is not a fragrance allergen; reactions are rare.

Origin & sourcing

Plant-derived: extracted and refined from sugarcane or sugar beet.

Questions everyone asks

Is cosmetic sucrose the same as table sugar?

Yes, it is the same sucrose refined from sugarcane or sugar beet, processed to a grade suitable for use in cosmetic formulas.

What does sucrose do in skincare?

It works mainly as a humectant, helping draw and retain moisture, and as a skin-conditioning ingredient.

Sources & references

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