Pullulan in skincare

Introduction

Pullulan is a polysaccharide that is rapidly gaining popularity in the field of skincare. It originates from fungal sources, known as Aureobasidium pullulans, which has now been incorporated into numerous skincare products. Its versatility and skin-friendliness are important selling points of substances seeking to improve skin appearance and smoothness.

What is pullulan?

Pullulan is an ingredient with several functions which is derived from the fermentation of starch, mainly exhibiting binder and film-forming properties in the skincare industry. It improves the texture properties of the product applied on the skin and helps in the uniform distribution of the product. It acts as a protective barrier, extending the applied product's longevity on the skin surface. Due to the strong water retention qualities of pullulan, skin hydration and volume are enhanced as well. The skin surface also gets firm and smoothened with its use. Pullulan is used in the formulations of creams, serums, lotions, and primers to improve the functional and aesthetic properties of these preparations.

Is pullulan a natural ingredient?

Yes, pullulan is a natural ingredient. It is a polysaccharide that can be found in nature and is produced through the fermentation of starch syrup. This makes pullulan a natural product because it is created through the ecological process of plant extract transformation.

What does pullulan do in skincare products?

Pullulan has a wide spectrum of usage, and among others, can be added to skincare formulations for its film-forming and texture-enhancing properties. For example, it can be found in serums, moisturisers, primers, and foundations. It makes it possible for the skin to hold onto moisture and have a thin film covering it, which assists in hydration. As a result, moisture evaporation is decreased and the look of the skin becomes more relaxed and soft.

Pullulan benefits in skincare

Pullulan in skincare offers several benefits to make your skin look younger and healthy. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Moisturising properties: Pullulan is an ingredient that is used across a number of industries due to its moisture-containment ability. It has a natural consistency and works in such a way that the skin is able to withstand a fair amount of wear and tear in terms of moisture.
• Anti-ageing properties: The anti-ageing effect of pullulan has been prominently observed and put into practice as well. Skin cells that create two essential proteins, collagen and elastin, which are responsible for the healthy and young aspect of the skin, are also promoted by the action of pullulan. In addition, pullulan also assist in the marking off of wrinkles and fine lines.
• Antimicrobial properties: Pullulan can also perform as an antimicrobial agent due to its penetrative properties. This is a particularly useful property since pullulan will kill and prevent bacteria and fungi growth into the skin. This will make it suitable for acne or people suffering from highly delicate or sensitive skin.

Pullulan compatibility with other active ingredients

Pullulan is a biocompatible and biodegradable natural biopolymer that can effectively function as a carrier for various active ingredients in cosmeceutical applications. Its compatibility is due to its non-toxic, colourless, and odourless properties, making it suitable for delivering active ingredients specifically to skin layers. However, it is essential to evaluate specific interactions between pullulan and particular active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, to ensure stability and effectiveness. Always double-check compatibility for particular use cases before application.

Precautions while using pullulan

There are numerous benefits of pullulan for skin, but a few precautions need to be taken for safety:

• Patch test first: Pullulan is generally believed to be safe, but it is advisable to check for any reactions. A small sample can be applied on the wrist or the ear. Refrain from any irritation and wait 24 hours.
• Avoid sensitive or compromised skin: Pullulan is a film-forming ingredient that may have negative implications for already sensitive or afflicted areas of the skin. Active irritation areas should be avoided. Seek consultation with a dermatologist when there is a skin condition affected.
• Look out for dryness or tightness: The tissues feel tight when pullulan is used on dry skin types. For cases of tightness, usage should be reduced, and a moisturising effect should follow.
• Sensitive skin types: Sensitive skin may be more prone to irritation from film-forming agents. Begin with limited use, gradually increasing to check tolerance.
• Limit layering with active ingredients: Combining with strong actives (like acids or retinoids) could cause irritation. Use pullulan products at a different time of day or on alternate days from strong actives.

Conclusion

Pullulan is an ingredient that is safe and free from toxicity. It is also regarded as a vegan ingredient since it is purely plant-based. Also, this ingredient is non-comedogenic and does not cause acne. Overall, there does not appear to be any adverse effects of the use of Pullulan. Even so, it is always advisable to patch-test when trying something new which contains this particular ingredient.