What Is Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract?
Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract is a plant-derived ingredient that starts with glucose sourced from corn or sugar beet. The sugar is fermented using a small orange mushroom called Dacryopinax spathularia. During fermentation the fungus breaks down the glucose and creates a mix of natural sugars and minerals that are then neutralized with a little sodium to form a stable salt. The finished material is a clear water-soluble liquid or powder that blends easily into skin care formulas.
Although the mushroom has been eaten in parts of Asia for generations its cosmetic use is fairly new. Researchers looking for sustainable moisturizers discovered that the ferment holds water in a way similar to the skin’s own natural moisturizing factors. This led to its adoption by formulators who wanted a plant-based alternative to synthetic humectants.
The production process involves controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks followed by filtration to remove the mushroom cells. The filtrate is then treated with food-grade sodium hydroxide to create the sodium salt, purified again and spray-dried or concentrated into a solution depending on the needs of the manufacturer.
You will most often find Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract in daily moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, under-eye gels, lightweight lotions for oily skin and after-sun products that aim to calm and replenish moisture.
Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ferment offers two main functions that improve how a product feels and performs on the skin:
- Humectant: It attracts water from the air and binds it to the skin surface which boosts immediate hydration, leaves skin looking plumper and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines caused by dryness
- Skin conditioning agent: By topping up the skin’s moisture reservoir it supports a softer smoother feel and can make other active ingredients spread more evenly for better overall performance
Who Can Use Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract
Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract is considered gentle and is generally suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, dry and sensitive skin. Because it works primarily as a humectant it delivers water without adding heavy oils so even acne-prone users tend to tolerate it well. There are no known skin types that must avoid this ingredient, though individuals with a proven mushroom allergy should proceed with caution since the ferment is derived from a fungus.
The material is plant-based and produced through fermentation so it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians. No animal-derived substances are used in its manufacture and it is not reliant on animal testing to confirm safety under most global regulations.
Current safety data indicate that products containing Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract are fine for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review their skincare routine with a qualified healthcare professional to be safe.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daily sunscreen use is still recommended, but there is no special need for extra photoprotection linked to this ferment.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential concerns, but they are uncommon and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Itchiness in individuals with a known mushroom or mold allergy
- Temporary tight feeling if applied in a very high concentration without additional emollients
- Rare contact dermatitis due to individual sensitivity to fermentation by-products
If any irritation or discomfort develops discontinue use of the product and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0. Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract is a water soluble humectant that adds hydration without leaving an oily film or residue that could block pores. It contains no fatty acids or waxy components commonly linked to clogging so the risk of it trapping sebum or dead skin cells is extremely low.
This makes the ingredient well suited to people who are prone to acne or breakouts.
Because it helps balance surface moisture some users find it can actually lessen the dry-tight feeling that sometimes triggers rebound oil production.
Summary
Sodium Dacryopinax Spathularia/Glucose Ferment Extract is mainly prized for its humectant and skin conditioning abilities. By pulling water into the upper layers of skin it boosts instant hydration then keeps that moisture in place which leaves skin softer smoother and temporarily plumper. Its lightweight texture lets other actives spread more evenly for a comfortable finish.
While not yet a household name it is gaining popularity among formulators looking for plant based alternatives to synthetic hydrators. You will mostly see it show up in moisturizers serums and masks marketed for weightless hydration.
Current research and industry use show the ingredient to be safe for the vast majority of skin types with a very low chance of irritation. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first so you can confirm personal compatibility before applying it to a larger area.