Polydextrose: 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: July 1, 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 Polydextrose?

Polydextrose is a man-made carbohydrate created by linking many units of the simple sugar D-glucose. The process involves heating glucose with a small amount of sorbitol and an acid catalyst, then rapidly cooling the mixture to form a stable, water-soluble polymer. First patented in the 1960s for use in low-calorie foods, its moisture-holding talent soon caught the eye of cosmetic chemists. Today it is produced on an industrial scale in syrup or powder form and added to skincare and haircare formulas.

Because it is easy to dissolve and has a neutral taste and smell, polydextrose slips into a wide range of products. You will see it in sheet masks, hydrating gels, leave-on moisturizers, lightweight lotions, anti-aging creams, styling creams and even rinse-off conditioners. In each of these it helps fine-tune texture while drawing water to the skin or hair surface.

Polydextrose’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In personal care formulas polydextrose serves two key roles that improve how a product feels and performs

  • Bulking – Adds body to a formula without making it greasy or heavy so lotions spread evenly and gels keep their pleasant cushiony feel
  • Humectant – Attracts and holds moisture from the air which helps keep skin and hair hydrated soft and supple throughout the day

Who Can Use Polydextrose

Polydextrose is gentle and water loving which makes it a good fit for nearly all skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well because it sits on the surface and does not disturb the skin barrier. There are no known reasons for acne-prone or mature skin to avoid it.

The ingredient is produced from plant-derived glucose with no animal by-products so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current safety data show no topical concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Because every pregnancy is unique this information is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask their doctor before adding new products to their routine just to be safe.

Polydextrose does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it will not raise the risk of sunburn. It can be used day or night alongside everyday sunscreen protection.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ from one person to another. The effects listed below are only potential outcomes and are unlikely when polydextrose has been properly formulated into a product.

  • Mild redness or stinging in extremely sensitive skin
  • Very rare allergic contact dermatitis resulting in itching or small bumps
  • Sticky or tacky feel if the product is overapplied which may lead to temporary discomfort

If you notice any of the reactions above stop using the product and speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Polydextrose is highly water soluble and does not leave an oily or occlusive film on the skin. It sits on the surface, attracts moisture then easily rinses away so it is unlikely to clog pores. For this reason it is generally considered safe for those prone to acne or breakouts.

Because it is almost always paired with other lightweight humectants and used at modest levels, its presence in a formula rarely changes the pore-clogging potential of the overall product.

Summary

Polydextrose is mainly valued for two jobs: it bulks up formulas to improve texture and it acts as a humectant that pulls water to the skin or hair for a softer feel. Its long chain of glucose units loves water which is how it gives lotions a cushiony glide while helping maintain hydration.

The ingredient is a quiet workhorse rather than a buzzword, showing up more in behind-the-scenes roles than in splashy marketing claims. Still, formulators appreciate its versatility and shelf stability which keeps it in steady demand.

Topical safety studies rate polydextrose as very low risk with minimal reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new cosmetic, do a small patch test first to be sure your skin agrees with the overall formula.

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