Trehalose

Trehalose is a naturally-occurring sugar (a disaccharide) that works as both a humectant and a protectant. On the skin it holds water at the surface and reduces water loss for better hydration. In nature it is a “stress-protectant” that helps cells survive dehydration and heat — and in a formula it brings that same stabilising quality, helping protect delicate ingredients and improve slip.

• Usage rate: 1%–5%
• Solubility: water-soluble — add to the water phase
• pH: stable across a wide range
• Texture: high-purity white crystalline powder; improves slip and hydration feel
• Pairs well with: other humectants like glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid

Trehalose

Trehalose is a naturally occurring disaccharide used in skincare for its excellent humectant and osmoprotective properties. It helps support moisture retention in formulations and contributes to improved skin hydration by reducing water loss from the skin surface. Trehalose primarily functions in nature as a stress-protectant molecule that helps cells survive dehydration, heat, and other extreme conditions.

Trehalose:

It is also known for its ability to stabilise proteins and lipids under environmental stress conditions, making it a valuable ingredient in advanced hydrating systems.

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Trehalose works well alongside other humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid, enhancing overall hydration performance in water-based skincare formulations.

Shop Hyaluronic Acid or other hydrating ingredients in Ingredients Here.

Formulator’s Note

This is a cosmetic raw material intended for external use only. Proper formulation practices, including preservation and pH control, are required when incorporating it into finished skincare products.

What does trehalose do? It is a humectant that holds water at the skin’s surface and helps reduce moisture loss.

Why is it called a “protectant”? In nature it helps cells survive dehydration and heat — it brings that stabilising quality to a formula.

What strength should I use? 1–5% in the water phase.