What Is Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate?
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate is a group of sugar alcohols made by breaking down starch, most often from corn, then adding hydrogen to the resulting syrup. The process transforms the original starch into a mixture of sorbitol, maltitol and related polyols that are stable, water loving and much less prone to crystallization than regular sugars. First explored in the food industry during the mid-20th century as a low calorie sweetener, its moisture binding talent soon caught the eye of cosmetic chemists looking for alternatives to glycerin. Manufacturing begins with milling corn into starch, treating it with enzymes or acids to hydrolyze the long chains into shorter molecules, purifying the syrup, running it through a hydrogenation reactor under pressure with a nickel catalyst, then filtering and concentrating the final clear liquid or spray-dried powder.
Because it is gentle, neutral in scent, and highly compatible with water, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate appears in a wide range of personal care goods: facial moisturizers, sheet masks, hydrating serums, after-sun gels, hand creams, styling gels, color cosmetics like foundations, and even toothpaste where it keeps pastes smooth.
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient supports skin feel and formula performance in one primary way.
As a humectant, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate attracts and holds water from both the product and the surrounding air, helping to keep the stratum corneum hydrated. In a formula it boosts immediate moisture, improves spreadability, reduces tackiness compared to high levels of glycerin and helps prevent products from drying out in the package.
Who Can Use Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate
Because it is mild and water based, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate is considered suitable for nearly every skin type including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. It binds moisture without clogging pores or leaving a heavy residue so even acne-prone users generally tolerate it well. There are no known issues for those with conditions such as rosacea or eczema, though anyone with a confirmed corn allergy should proceed with caution since the raw material usually comes from maize.
The ingredient is plant derived and does not rely on animal by-products or animal testing in its production, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.
Current safety data shows no reproductive or developmental concerns, so products containing Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate are generally viewed as safe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified doctor to be sure.
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate does not make skin more prone to sun damage and can be used alongside daytime sunscreen without added risk. It is also non volatile so it will not trigger photosensitivity when exposed to UV light.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues that could occur, but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.
- Mild skin irritation such as redness or stinging, more likely on very compromised skin barriers
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to corn or other components in the finished formula
- Transient tacky feel if used at very high percentages which some users may find unpleasant
- Eye discomfort if a concentrated product accidentally gets into the eyes
If you experience any persistent itching, burning, swelling or other discomfort stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 out of 5. Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate is highly water soluble, leaves no oily film and does not occlude pores, so it has virtually no tendency to trigger comedones. Because it behaves more like glycerin than a fatty ingredient, it is generally considered safe for acne prone or breakout prone skin. No evidence links it to pimple formation even at the higher levels used in hydrating masks or gels.
One point worth noting is that final formulas using this humectant sometimes pair it with richer emollients for added slip. In those cases the comedogenicity of the finished product will depend on the whole blend, not just the Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate.
Summary
Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate is primarily a humectant that draws and locks water into both the product and the upper layers of skin. By holding moisture it softens, smooths and improves the feel of lotions, serums and gels while reducing tack compared with high glycerin loads.
It enjoys steady but modest popularity, showing up most often in hydrating toners, sheet masks and oral care rather than grabbing headlines like hyaluronic acid. Still, formulators appreciate its gentle nature, plant origin and versatility.
Current research finds it non irritating, non sensitizing and safe for all life stages. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test a product that contains Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate to rule out personal sensitivities before making it a staple in your routine.