Mannose

Mannose is a simple sugar and water-soluble humectant used in cosmetic formulations, included to attract moisture to the skin surface and improve product texture and glide, supporting a hydrated feel without greasiness.
Like this ingredient?

Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A simple sugar that hydrates skin and helps products glide on.
Category
Hydration, Skin Conditioning
Type
Humectant

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Helps skin look bouncier by drawing in lightweight moisture, easing the appearance of surface dryness, though evidence for standout performance versus other hydrators is limited.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Often included in hydrating serums, gel moisturizers, toners, and sheet masks to boost water content in formulas.

Comedogenic Rating

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

Safety

Generally considered low-irritation and suitable for most skin types. Patch test if very sensitive; no notable regulatory restrictions known.

Is Mannose a Good Ingredient?

It acts as a basic humectant that can boost surface hydration, but evidence that it outperforms staples like glycerin is limited, so results may be modest, which is why it rates Fair. Minor risks include stickiness and occasional mild irritation in sensitive users.

Products with Mannose

Related Ingredients