Mannose
Humectant
Mannose at a glance
- Monosaccharide (simple sugar) derived from glucose
- Helps skin retain and attract moisture
- Promotes a dewy, plump skin look
- The CIR Expert Panel deemed safe as used in cosmetics
Mannose description
Mannose is a monosaccharide and epimer (an optical isomer, or an asymmetric molecule capable of existing in two different forms) of glucose. It offers humectant benefits when applied topically. Its humectant abilities mean it assists skin in the retention and attraction of water to skin’s surface. This hydration allows skin to maintain balance, giving it a plump, dewy appearance. Humectants like mannose are commonly included in leave-on products like moisturizers, serums and eye creams. Mannose is naturally occurring in the human body and an integral aspect of the human metabolism process. Beyond this, mannose is regularly used in the food, health and medical industries. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel deemed mannose as safe for use in cosmetics in percentages up to 5%.