Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate is a mixture of sugar alcohols made by hydrogenating partially hydrolyzed starch. In skincare and oral care it works as a water-attracting humectant, providing mild hydration and keeping products smooth.
A sugar-alcohol blend that pulls in light, gentle hydration.
Category
Hydration, Skin Conditioning
Type
Humectant
Ingredient Ratings
Overall Rating
Good
Comedogenic Risk
None
Skin Benefits
Draws moisture to the skin for light, comfortable hydration without a heavy feel. Keeps formulas feeling soft and pliable on application.
Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics
Used in hydrating serums, gels, and moisturizers for a dewy feel, and appears in sheet masks for moisture replenishment. Also found in oral care like toothpaste for its humectant properties.
Comedogenic Rating
This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.
Safety
Low irritation risk overall; mild stinging can occur on compromised skin, since humectants can draw water rapidly. No notable regulatory restrictions for topical use.
Is Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate a Good Ingredient?
Rated Good because it provides light, water-binding hydration that keeps formulas pliable without greasiness. The evidence points to modest humectant performance rather than standout results, which is enough for a solid rating but not a top one, and irritation risk is low for most users.