Fructooligosaccharides

moisturising antioxidant

overview

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a type of oligosaccharides and carbohydrates used in skincare for their moisturizing, prebiotic, and potential antioxidant properties. They are composed of short chains of 3-10 fructose units. FOS helps promote skin's moisture retention, nourishes and supports a healthy skin microbiome, and has potential antioxidant activity.

benefits

Benefits of FOS: 1. **Moisturizes the skin:** FOS has humectant properties, which help attract and retain moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple. 2. **Supports a healthy skin microbiome:** FOS acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment for beneficial bacteria on the skin. This helps maintain a healthy skin microbiome and protect against harmful bacteria. 3. **Potential antioxidant activity:** Recent studies describe the potential antioxidant activity of fructooligosaccharides, helping protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Skin suitability

Suitable for all skin types

concerns

Potential side effects may include: * Abdominal distress * Diarrhea * Gas * Bloating * Stomach cramps

precautions

People with limited tolerance to any form of fructose, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome (SIBO) should use FOS with caution.

source

FOS occurs naturally in plants and are often found in garlic, sugar beet, chicory, onion and banana, among other fruits and vegetables. Although natural, fructooligosaccharides can also be produced synthetically via fermentation for use in cosmetics.

CIR

Safe for use in cosmetics without concentration restrictions.

EWG

NA

additional info

FOS is considered a safe and gentle ingredient for skincare. It is non-irritating and suitable for all skin types.