Snapshot
- Overview
- A simple sugar that hydrates skin and helps products glide on.
- Category
- Hydration, Skin Conditioning
- Type
- Humectant
Mannose
Mannose is a simple sugar and water-soluble humectant used in cosmetic formulations, included to attract moisture to the skin surface and improve product texture and glide, supporting a hydrated feel without greasiness.
Like this ingredient?
Our take
Is Mannose a Good Ingredient?
It acts as a basic humectant that can boost surface hydration, but evidence that it outperforms staples like glycerin is limited, so results may be modest, which is why it rates Fair. Minor risks include stickiness and occasional mild irritation in sensitive users.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Helps skin look bouncier by drawing in lightweight moisture, easing the appearance of surface dryness, though evidence for standout performance versus other hydrators is limited.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Often included in hydrating serums, gel moisturizers, toners, and sheet masks to boost water content in formulas.
Before you use it
Safety
Generally considered low-irritation and suitable for most skin types. Patch test if very sensitive; no notable regulatory restrictions known.
Products with Mannose
