What Is Psicose?
Psicose, also known as allulose or 6-pentahydroxy-2-hexanone, is a rare sugar closely related to fructose. Small amounts occur naturally in foods such as figs, raisins and maple syrup, but the supply used in cosmetics is usually created in a lab. Manufacturers start with corn or sugar beet starch, convert it to fructose, then use an enzyme step to flip one of the sugar’s atoms and yield high-purity psicose. The result is a water-soluble powder that blends easily into creams, gels and serums.
The beauty industry became interested in psicose after food scientists noted its ability to hold water and remain stable at different temperatures. Chemists soon realized those same traits translate well to skin care, so formulators began adding it to moisturizers and sheet masks in the early 2010s. Today you might spot it in hydrating lotions, overnight masks, soothing gels and lightweight anti-aging treatments where a non-sticky humectant is needed.
Psicose’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas psicose offers two main functions that work hand in hand to boost moisture and comfort
- Humectant: Psicose attracts water from the environment and pulls it toward the skin’s surface. This helps a product keep skin feeling soft and supple for longer while reducing the tight sensation that often follows cleansing
- Skin conditioning: By maintaining water levels in the upper layers of the skin, psicose contributes to a smoother texture and can enhance the overall feel of a product, allowing it to glide on easily without a greasy finish
Who Can Use Psicose
Psicose is gentle and water loving so it suits almost every skin type including dry, normal and combination skin. It is lightweight and non greasy which makes it comfortable for oily or acne prone complexions as well. Only those with a diagnosed fructose sensitivity or a known sugar allergy should approach with caution because the molecule is a close relative.
The ingredient is produced from plant starches and involves no animal derived substances or animal testing, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current data shows no reason to avoid topical psicose during pregnancy or while breastfeeding however research is limited. This is not medical advice; anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any new skin care product with a qualified health professional to be on the safe side.
Psicose does not increase photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical psicose differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects; they remain unlikely for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.
- Mild redness or warmth shortly after application
- Transient tingling in very sensitive skin
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with sugar related allergies
Stop use and consult a healthcare professional if any discomfort or irritation persists or worsens.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic). Psicose dissolves fully in water, leaves no oily residue and does not sit inside pores, so it carries virtually no risk of clogging them. Its sugar structure lacks long fatty chains that typically raise comedogenic potential.
This makes psicose suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it rinses away easily and does not alter sebum composition, it pairs well with other lightweight hydrators often found in acne care formulas.
Summary
Psicose works mainly as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. It draws moisture from the air and locks it into the upper skin layers, keeping skin soft comfortable and smooth without a greasy afterfeel.
Although its use in beauty products is still niche compared to classics like glycerin, interest is growing as brands search for non-sticky alternatives that perform well in modern gel textures and sheet masks.
Current research and consumer experience suggest topical psicose is very safe for most skin types with only rare reports of mild irritation or allergy. As with any new ingredient it is wise to patch test a small area first to rule out personal sensitivities before applying it more broadly.