Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 23, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1?

Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 is a small chain of glucose molecules created when the enzyme glucosyl transferase rearranges maltose, a sugar that comes from corn or other starch-rich plants. The finished ingredient holds between four and six glucose units, making it larger than simple sugars yet still light enough to dissolve easily in water-based formulas.

Interest in this sugar chain grew in the early 2000s when researchers noticed that certain plant sugars could hold water on the skin and help friendly surface bacteria thrive. Cosmetic chemists began adding Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 to lab tests and soon found it paired well with moisturizers and soothing blends. Today the ingredient is produced in controlled, food-grade fermenters where maltose meets glucosyl transferase under specific temperature and pH conditions. After the reaction, the syrup is filtered, purified and dried into a fine powder ready for cosmetic use.

You will most often see Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 in lightweight daily moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, leave-on lotions and gentle after-sun gels. It also appears in some anti-aging formulas that aim to smooth rough patches and support a balanced skin surface.

Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skincare, this sugar chain serves two key roles that work together to keep skin comfortable and fresh

  • Humectant – draws water from the air and from deeper skin layers to the surface, boosting immediate moisture levels and giving skin a plump, soft feel without a heavy or greasy touch
  • Skin Conditioning – helps smooth the outer layer, supports a healthy skin barrier and can encourage a balanced microbiome, which in turn may reduce signs of dryness or sensitivity over time

Who Can Use Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1

This sugar based humectant is gentle enough for almost every skin type. Dry and mature skin benefit from the extra moisture it pulls in, while oily or combination skin appreciate that it hydrates without a greasy film. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is non acidic and free of common irritants. The only group that may need caution is anyone with a severe corn allergy since the starting material is corn derived, though the final ingredient is highly purified.

Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 is produced from plant starch using microbial enzymes, not animal sources, so it suits both vegetarians and vegans. The ingredient is also halal and kosher compliant when manufactured under the right certifications.

Current data shows no hormonal activity or systemic absorption, so products containing this ingredient are generally considered safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and expectant or nursing mothers should always check any new skincare product with their doctor to be certain it fits their individual needs.

The molecule does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it will not increase the risk of sunburn. It can even pair well with daytime products that include sunscreen or antioxidants.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 differ from one person to another. The points below list potential side effects, but most users will not run into these issues when the ingredient is used at customary levels in a well-formulated product.

  • Mild redness or warmth particularly on very reactive skin
  • Transient stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases, more likely in individuals with a confirmed corn allergy
  • Sticky afterfeel when used in high concentrations which some users may find uncomfortable

If you experience any of these side effects stop using the product and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0-1 (effectively non comedogenic)

Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 is a small water soluble sugar that leaves no oily film on the skin so it does not block pores. Its hydrophilic character keeps it in the watery part of a formula and prevents the kind of buildup that can trap sebum and lead to blemishes, which is why it sits at the very bottom of the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.

The overall pore friendliness of a finished product will still depend on the other ingredients and the texture of the formula, not just this single humectant.

Summary

Serving as both a humectant and a skin conditioning agent, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide-1 draws moisture toward the surface and helps smooth the outer layer while fostering a balanced microbiome. These actions leave the skin feeling softer and looking healthier.

Although not as famous as hyaluronic acid or glycerin it is quietly gaining popularity in lightweight moisturizers and calming serums thanks to its gentle nature and clean skin feel.

Current research reports a strong safety profile with low risk of irritation or systemic effects, making it a dependable choice for most skin types. Even so, it is always wise to patch test any new product that contains this ingredient before full use to ensure personal compatibility.

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