What Is Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract?
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract is a blend that brings together three naturally derived substances. Steviol glycosides are sweet-tasting molecules taken from the leaves of the stevia plant. Angelica gigas is a traditional Korean herb whose purple roots are rich in protective compounds called coumarins. Chitosan is a film-forming biopolymer obtained by deacetylating chitin, the structural fiber found in crustacean shells and certain fungi. Once each component is isolated and purified, manufacturers combine them in precise ratios, often through a gentle aqueous extraction followed by filtration and spray drying. The finished powder or solution offers a balanced profile of plant antioxidants and a cationic polymer that can cling to skin and hair.
The trio was first explored in skin care labs looking for ways to pair chitosan’s soothing barrier properties with botanicals known in East Asian herbal traditions. Formulators discovered that adding stevia-derived glycosides boosted preservation potential, letting them reduce synthetic preservatives while maintaining product freshness. Today the ingredient shows up in sheet masks, hydrating gels, anti-aging serums, post-sun treatments and blemish-prone skin toners where a light touch of antimicrobial defense is welcome.
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking blend contributes two key actions that support healthy looking skin.
- Antimicrobial: Steviol glycosides and chitosan work together to keep the product itself free of unwanted microbes which can in turn help maintain clearer skin and reduce the need for stronger preservatives.
- Antioxidant: Compounds from Angelica gigas roots neutralize excess free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution helping to guard against the dullness and fine lines that oxidative stress can cause.
Who Can Use Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract
This blend is generally well tolerated by most skin types including normal, dry, combination and oily skin. Its light antimicrobial action can be helpful for blemish prone complexions while the antioxidant boost supports mature or environmentally stressed skin. Those with very sensitive or reactive skin may still appreciate its gentle profile, though anyone with a known shellfish allergy should approach with caution because chitosan is often sourced from crustacean shells.
The ingredient is not suitable for vegans or strict vegetarians since chitosan’s commercial supply usually comes from shrimp or crab shells. A small number of brands use fungal chitosan but unless the label clearly states this plant based source the default assumption is animal derived.
No specific red flags exist for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and pregnant or nursing individuals should discuss any new cosmetic product with their healthcare provider first just to be safe.
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitising. Standard daily sunscreen habits are still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions only and most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated.
- Mild redness or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Dry or tight feeling if applied in high concentrations without follow up moisturizer
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to shellfish or chitin derivatives
- Rare itching or small bumps linked to botanical sensitivity
If irritation or any unexpected reaction appears stop use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract earns a low score because it contains no heavy oils or waxes that typically clog pores. Chitosan forms a lightweight breathable film, steviol glycosides are water-soluble molecules and Angelica gigas root contributes antioxidant compounds rather than lipids. As a result the blend is unlikely to trap sebum or dead skin cells inside pores.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
One point is still assigned because any film-forming ingredient can, in very rare cases, feel too occlusive for extremely oily complexions if used at high percentages.
Summary
Steviol Glycosides/Angelica Gigas Root/Chitosan Extract delivers two main benefits: antimicrobial protection that helps keep formulas fresh and skin clearer, and antioxidant support that shields the complexion from everyday environmental stress. It does so by pairing chitosan’s ability to disrupt microbial membranes with stevia glycosides’ preservative boost while Angelica gigas root supplies free-radical-scavenging coumarins.
The blend is still a niche player compared with well-known actives like niacinamide or vitamin C, but formulators value its dual function and gentle nature, so it is slowly appearing in toners, masks and soothing serums.
Topical safety is considered high for most users; adverse reactions are uncommon and usually mild. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to patch test a small area first to confirm personal tolerance before full use.