Polysaccharides, a class of complex compounds found in many natural resources, are attracting increasing interest in the field of cosmetics. Their ability to retain water, strengthen the skin barrier and provide protection against external aggressions makes them active ingredients of choice to meet the demands of modern beauty that respects the skin and the environment. Whether you are discovering these molecules for the first time or are already familiar with their effectiveness, dive into the world of polysaccharides and learn how they improve the hydration, comfort and resilience of your epidermis.
What is a polysaccharide?
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates, formed by the chaining of several simple sugar units (monosaccharides). Present in many plants, algae, fungi or microorganisms, they play an essential role in the structure and protection of cells. In cosmetics, these macromolecules are particularly sought after for their ability to form moisturizing and protective films on the surface of the skin, as well as for their soothing and softening power.
Why are polysaccharides popular in cosmetics?
The success of polysaccharides in skin care is mainly due to their multiple actions:
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Long-lasting hydration : Thanks to their ability to retain water, polysaccharides help maintain optimal hydration. By creating a thin but resistant film on the surface of the skin, they help slow the evaporation of water and, thus, prevent dehydration.
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Protection and strengthening of the skin barrier : Polysaccharides play a role similar to a second skin. They strengthen the skin barrier, helping it to better resist climatic variations, pollutants and environmental stresses.
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Soothing effect and immediate comfort : Certain forms of polysaccharides, particularly those from natural sources and subjected to specific purification processes, have soothing properties. They reduce feelings of tightness, tingling or redness, providing real relief to sensitive or reactive skin.
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Pleasant sensory texture : Often, formulas enriched with polysaccharides offer a fluid and silky application. The care products glide delicately on the epidermis, reinforcing the sensory experience and the pleasure of use.
Varied natural sources
Polysaccharides used in cosmetics come from a multitude of sources. They are found in:
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Terrestrial plants : Some plant gums, such as xanthan gum or guar gum, are polysaccharides used to stabilize, texturize and moisturize formulas.
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Seaweed : Rich in specific polysaccharides (alginates, carrageenans, fucans), they provide hydration, firmness and antioxidant protection.
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Fungi and micro-organisms : Certain polysaccharides, resulting from the fermentation of micro-organisms, offer remarkable purity and effectiveness, while being part of an environmentally friendly approach.
Cosmetic brands rely on these varied resources to develop complete treatments, combining hydration, comfort and protection, thus meeting the needs of demanding, urban skin that is concerned about the environmental impact of the products used.
The key role of a patented soothing polysaccharide
Cosmetic research is constantly innovating to offer ever more targeted and effective active ingredients. In this context, some premium formulas now include patented polysaccharides, selected for their exceptional soothing properties. These innovative active ingredients not only strengthen skin hydration and protection, but also provide immediate comfort to sensitive, irritated or weakened skin due to daily stress.
Incorporating polysaccharides into your skincare routine
Adding products containing polysaccharides to your routine is simple. They are mainly found in moisturizing serums, day or night creams, calming gels, or essences. Used daily, these treatments help restore skin comfort, even out skin texture, and preserve the suppleness of the epidermis. You can also integrate them in addition to nourishing, antioxidant, or soothing active ingredients, forming a real multifunctional shield against external aggressions.
L’Essence Première, a precious essence enriched with patented soothing polysaccharide
In the quest for beauty inspired by the balance between nature, science and efficiency, the GASPARD COTTANCE brand has developed Essence Première , a precious treatment incorporating a patented soothing polysaccharide. Designed to provide enhanced hydration, it supports the skin barrier, provides immediate comfort to sensitive skin and ideally prepares the skin to receive subsequent treatments. Without neglecting the sensory aspect, this light and silky essence illustrates how modern research is inspired by the unique properties of polysaccharides to offer a refined skincare experience, rooted in the French cosmetic tradition.
