Beta Glucan is an ingredient that started cropping on the radar of late. Understandably so, since it has plenty of skin benefits. What is Beta Glucan, and do you need it in your skincare routine?
What is Beta Glucan?
Beta Glucan is a polysaccharide (a sugar molecule). The primary source of Beta Glucan are oats, yeasts, cereals, some mushrooms, and fungi. In the body, they work by enhancing the macrophage activity (scavenger cells that defend us from various pathogens).
How does Beta Glucan benefit the skin?
Beta Glucan is a potent humectant – it attracts and holds moisture in the uppermost layer of the skin.
Because of its macrophage activity, Beta Glucan helps protect the skin’s barrier from bacteria and viruses. Likewise, it reduces inflammation and helps soothe the skin. Certain studies have shown Beta Glucan can be beneficial in the treatment of skin conditions (like eczema, dermatitis, etc.) because it speeds up wound healing.
Beta Glucan is also rich in phenols, known for its antioxidant activity. When applied topically, they protect the skin against free radicals and environmental damage that can use premature signs of aging.
Lastly, Beta Glucan minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A study examined the penetration effects of 0.5% Beta Glucan in human skin models. It discovered that even though the Beta Glucan molecule is large, it can deeply penetrate the epidermis. It effectively plumps up fine lines and wrinkles as well as reduces the roughness of the skin.
Who can benefit from including Beta Glucan in their skincare routine?
Because it supports the skin’s natural barrier function and is a well-tolerated ingredient, Beta Glucan can benefit all skin types. It can be found in serums, moisturisers, and masks. It can easily slot into any skincare routine, no matter how minimalistic or elaborate.
Ishtar products that contain Beta Glucan
Hydraplus Cream
What is it?
A light and soothing repair cream.
What’s in it?
5% Organic Beta Glucan improves the natural skin’s natural repair function.
5% vitamin C (Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate) boosts collagen production and helps protect the skin against daily environmental stressors.
MSM also boosts the skin’s natural repair function, organic Calendula, and Chamomile soothe and calm the skin. Cocoa butter, Tamanu, and Jojoba oil nourish the skin.
What does it do?
Hydraplus Cream boosts the skin’s natural Hyaluronic acid levels and repair function. It calms, soothes, and nourishes the skin.
Who is it for?
Best suitable for normal, sensitive, and dry skin.
Brighten Up fluid
What is it?
A light and soothing fluid.
What’s in it?
Chromabright (Dimethylmethoxy Chromanyl Palmitate), an active patented by luxury brands shown to reduce hyperpigmentation without sensitising the skin.
4% Niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) treats and prevents breakouts, regulates oil production and helps fade hyperpigmentation.
Bisabolol, a phytochemical, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.
Beta Glucan calms and soothes the skin. Papaya Seed oil is rich in enzymes and promotes the skin’s suppleness. Green Tea extract has antioxidants properties.
What does it do?
Brighten Up fluid is formulated to reduce uneven pigmentation and treat and prevent blemishes.
Who is it for?
Brighten Up fluid is suitable for all skin types who want to even out their skin tone and treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is an excellent choice for sensitive skin prone to breakouts and rosacea.
Hydro Magic Collagen Catalyst
What is it?
An aqueous serum.
What’s in it?
A mega dose of Tripeptide-5 (Syncoll™). Studies show that Tripeptide-5 helps reduce wrinkle depth over 28 days. It increases collagen production by stimulating TGF-β (Tissue Growth Factor; the skin’s natural growth factor), which is a vital component in the synthesis of collagen. It also helps improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
The formula also contains NMF (Natural Moisture Factors) with Beta Glucan to help replenish the moisture reserves.
What does it do?
Hydro Magic Collagen Catalyst is a triple-action formula. It stimulates the cells to produce more collagen, it protects the existing collagen from damage and replenishes essential moisture reserves. The skin is smooth and hydrated.
Who is it for?
Hydro Magic Collagen Catalyst suits all skin types prone to dehydration, who also want the benefits of a collagen-boosting peptide in their routine.
