Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate

Hydrogenated starch hydrolysate is a thick, syrup-like ingredient manufactured from starch. It is first chopped up by enzymes into smaller chunks and then it undergoes a chemical process called hydrogenation. The resulting syrup contains a mixture of sweet-tasting sugars and sugar alcohols.

It is used in concentrations of up to 4% in skincare products and serves as a film-forming ingredient that can also bind water to the skin’s surface (humectant).

Some manufacterures claim it is also able to reduce irritation caused by cleansing agents in the formula.