What Is Biosaccharide Gum-5?
Biosaccharide Gum-5 is a naturally derived gum produced through the fermentation of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol found in fruits and corn. Chemically it is a branched chain polymer made of alternating glucose and rhamnose units that link together in a precise pattern, creating a large water-loving molecule able to form a flexible film on skin.
The ingredient was developed in the early 2000s when advances in biotechnology made it possible to guide specific strains of microorganisms to build tailored sugar chains. Manufacturers feed the microbes a sorbitol-rich solution, allow fermentation to run under controlled temperature and pH, then separate, purify and dry the resulting gum into a fine powder ready for cosmetic formulas.
Its gentle origin and versatile texture quickly attracted formulators looking for plant-based alternatives to synthetic polymers. Today Biosaccharide Gum-5 can be found in leave-on and rinse-off products such as hydrating serums, soothing face masks, anti-aging creams, daily moisturizers, after-sun gels, primers and even some hair treatments where a light conditioning feel is desired.
Biosaccharide Gum-5’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare Biosaccharide Gum-5 is valued mainly for its skin conditioning ability. Once applied it forms a breathable film that helps lock in moisture, leaving the surface soft, smooth and supple. This lightweight layer can also reduce the feel of tightness, enhance spreadability and give formulas a pleasant silky glide without heaviness or stickiness.
Who Can Use Biosaccharide Gum-5
Biosaccharide Gum-5 is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. Its film-forming nature seals in water without clogging pores or leaving a heavy residue, making it comfortable for oily or acne-prone skin while still giving dry skin long-lasting softness. Because it is a mild sugar-based polymer with no animal-derived components it is considered appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
The ingredient has no known hormonal activity so it is not specifically restricted during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear new skincare products with their doctor to be safe.
Biosaccharide Gum-5 does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It is also odorless and colorless so it rarely interferes with fragrances or dyes that may be in the same formula.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Biosaccharide Gum-5 can vary from person to person. The following points outline potential reactions, though most users experience none of these when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or warmth, usually short-lived
- Temporary itching in highly sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a specific sugar sensitivity
- Eye irritation if a concentrated product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any discomfort, rash or other unexpected reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Biosaccharide Gum-5 is a large water-soluble sugar polymer that sits on the surface of skin rather than seeping into pores. It contains no oils or waxes, does not trap sebum and is easily rinsed away, all of which explain its non-comedogenic score.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Real-world breakouts are more likely to come from heavier emollients paired with the gum, so always consider the full formula rather than this single ingredient.
Summary
Biosaccharide Gum-5 is a fermented sugar gum that conditions skin by forming a light, breathable film which reduces moisture loss, softens texture and gives products a silky glide. Its hydrophilic structure attracts and holds water while the flexible network smooths the surface for an immediate comfort boost.
The ingredient enjoys modest but rising popularity, especially in clean beauty lines seeking plant-based alternatives to synthetic polymers. It is not yet as common as classics like hyaluronic acid but appears more often in new hydrating serums, masks and light creams.
Overall safety is high, with low irritation and no known systemic concerns, yet it is still wise to perform a patch test when trying any product containing Biosaccharide Gum-5 to confirm personal compatibility.