Beta Glucan (Oat Flour)

Beta glucan from oat flour is a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide used in cosmetics as a humectant. It attracts and holds moisture, improving skin softness and giving a reinforced barrier feel in leave-on formulas.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
An oat-derived ingredient that boosts hydration and calms redness.
Category
Hydration, Barrier Support, Sensitive Skin, Soothing, Skin Conditioning
Type
Humectant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Boosts lasting hydration and helps skin feel plumper and more resilient while reducing the look of dryness-related redness, and supports a stronger-feeling moisture barrier for improved comfort.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in hydrating serums, moisturizers, eye creams, and sheet masks to improve water retention, and frequently included in after-cleansing essences for sensitive or dehydrated skin routines.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Generally low irritation and suitable for sensitive skin. Rare oat-specific allergies can occur, so patch test if you're oat-sensitive.

Is Beta Glucan (Oat Flour) a Good Ingredient?

Multiple cosmetic studies back its hydration and barrier-comfort effects, and it stays stable in water-based systems with a low irritation profile, which is what earns it a Great rating. It boosts moisturization without the sting often seen with stronger actives.