What is trehalose and why is it good for the skin?
What is Trehalose?
Trehalose is a naturally occurring sugar derived from plants and fungi, used in skincare products for its moisturising and antioxidant properties. Trehalose is also known as the ‘Resurrection Sugar,’ as it helps to resurrect plants and insects when they experience extreme dehydration and oxidative stress. This is possible because trehalose during periods of dehydration it has a unique ability to form a gel, preventing cells from dehydration, which, in turn, protects them from damage.
The word “trehalose” is derived from the Biblical term ‘trehala manna’, and from an alternative name for trehalose, ‘mycose’, referring to the mushroom source of this sugar.
What are the benefits of trehalose to the skin?
In skincare, trehalose is used as a hydrating ingredient, thanks to its water-binding properties. Besides its rehydrating properties, trehalose is also a potent antioxidant and skin protector.
Hydrating properties
The hydrating properties of trehalose are the most important. It is able to do this as it mimics the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF). The NMF is composed mainly of amino acids and various derivatives of these amino acids, such as urocanic acid, salts, sugars, lactic acid, and urea which all keep the skin’s surface hydrated and supple, preventing dehydration
Drying ingredients, such as alcohol and cleansing agents, as well as ageing, deplete the NMF, making the skin feel tight and dry. Using trehalose in skincare helps maintain the natural moisturising factor keeping the skin looking plump and healthy.
Trehalose is now often used instead of hyaluronic acid in skincare for moisturisation properties. Because it has a smaller molecular size, trehalose is more texturally compatible with some formulations, and because it is naturally derived, it’s less likely to cause sensitivities
Antioxidant Properties
Trehalose protects skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollution. Free radicals weaken the skin and can cause premature ageing. Using an antioxidant like trehalose protects the skin from the oxidative damage caused by free radicals. When cells are exposed to environmental stresses such as oxidation, heat, UV and dehydration, trehalose is synthesised, protecting the cells from damage.
Where you can find Trehalose in our products
You can find trehalose in our two new body creams: Geranium & Jasmine Contouring Body Cream and Bergamot & Cardamom Smoothing Body Cream and also in our brand new product, Ceramide Moisture Boost Essence.
