Beta-glucan in Korean Skincare

One of the ingredients we are putting into the spotlight today is beta-glucan! If you're on the quest for that picture-perfect, glass skin complexion then this is the must have ingredient in your skincare routine.

What is Beta-Glucan and what does it do?

Beta-glucan is a naturally occurring complex sugar (polysaccharide) found in various sources like oats, barley, and mushroom or seaweed. In skincare, it's like a trusted sidekick that's always got your back, helping your skin reach its full potential. Polysaccharides essentially act as a kind of mesh that forms over the skin to trap in more moisture and prevent moisture loss through evaporation. Beta-glucan is a well researched ingredient that is safe for the skin and has some amazing antioxidant as well as moisturizing benefits.

What Does Beta-Glucan do for Skin?

• Hydrates
• Soothes and minimizes redness
• Protects
• Heals
• Works anti-aging

Beta-glucan has many amazing benefits when included in your skincare. Beta-glucans are incredible hydrators, which are the main helpers in making your skin glowing with health. By nourishing and hydrating the skin, beta glucan can actually also help strengthen the skin barrier and protect it from environmental stress. 

Beta glucan is also one of the main ingredients we recommend for skin soothing. One of its many proven results during research has shown that the ingredient is great at soothing redness and minimizing irritation, making it a great choice for sensitive skin types. It’s also a great choice for those suffering from acne-prone skin and breakouts since it helps with skin healing. Beta glucan actually helps promote faster skin healing. 

A more unexpected benefit is also the anti-aging effect that beta glucan has on our skin. The ingredient has some great skin plumping properties which work to fill in fine lines and wrinkles making their appearance smoother and less visible.

Is beta-glucan skincare good or bad for you?

Since beta glucan is a safe ingredient it’s suitable for all skin types, even the sensitive ones. With its many benefits it’s a must-have in your skincare routine. Look no further than the ingredient list on your favorite skincare products. It's often found in serums, creams, and even masks. One product to keep an eye out for is the iUNIK Beta-Glucan Power Moisture Serum, a LW favorite. Combined with the iUNIK Beta-Glucan Daily Moisture Cream the two form a power duo that will deliver that glass skin effect. 

You will also find the ingredient in some other K-beauty favorites like the Tocobo Multi Ceramide Cream which intensely nourishes and hydrates the skin. The building blocks of hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and beta-glucan deliver barrier strengthening nourishment and the best hydration you will experience. The Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum hydrates and calms the dehydrated and irritated skin. A mix of natural vegetable extracts and beta-glucan work soothing, hydrating and plumping on the skin.

Do you have an oily skin that is acne prone? Then the Isntree Real Mugwort Clay Mask infused with 6 different types of clay, mugwort and beta-glucan will work skin purifying without that dreaded drying effect. Meanwhile the Benton Aloe Soothing Mask Pack is infused with the best of both worlds, aloe vera and beta-glucan form a powerful skin soothing duo that will calm any irritation, redness, or skin burn.