Do you know the pullulan? Find out why it's the latest skincare trend
Pullulan is a versatile skincare ingredient known for its moisturizing and antioxidant properties. It is capable of working as a "carrier" allowing the delivery of active ingredients where they are needed. In addition, it has the potential to strengthen the skin's microbiota, provide temporary mechanical support to underlying structures and, thanks to its non-irritating film-forming properties, offer a subtle but visible tightening effect.
Pullulan is a naturally occurring fibrous polymer produced by a type of black yeast known as Aureobasidium pullulans. It contains complex sugars called polysaccharides, which makes it a good water-binding (i.e., moisturizing) agent and antioxidant in skin care products.
It has been shown to work well as a "carrier" for other skincare actives, effectively delivering the ingredients where they are needed. Additionally, research shows that pullulan has the potential to help strengthen the skin's microbiota. Studies also show that it can provide temporary mechanical support to underlying skin structures, as well as a subtle but visible tightening effect due to its non-irritating film-forming properties.
More recently, pullulan has been used in dissolving microneedle patch products, where it is believed to improve transdermal delivery of ingredients. Scientists are also exploring the therapeutic benefits of pullulan-based hydrogel films for various skin conditions.
As a texture-enhancing ingredient, pullulan's characteristics include its water solubility and relatively low viscosity compared to other polysaccharides. It has good thermal stability and has achieved Generally Recognized as Safe (GRaS) status from the US FDA.
In summary, pullulan is a promising skincare ingredient that offers multiple benefits, including its ability to strengthen the skin's microbiota and enhance the delivery of active ingredients. It continues to be studied for its many therapeutic properties and film-forming benefits for the skin. Respibeauty is one of the products that contains this natural skin care ingredient, which can be a good option for those looking to improve the hydration and health of their skin.