Rhamnose

A naturally occurring deoxy sugar that replenishes water levels in the skin.
Moisturizing
Other functions
Origin
Rhamnose

Overview

Rhamnose is a type of ingredient known as a deoxy sugar. A deoxy sugar is a sugar molecule that has had a hydroxyl group replaced with a hydrogen atom. Although deoxy sugars have lost a water-loving hydroxyl group, they still have other hydroxyl groups remaining. This means that deoxy sugars, and rhamnose in particular, are water-loving and will attract water to themselves.

As a result, rhamnose makes an excellent humectant, which is a moisturizing ingredient that functions by drawing more water into the skin. Rhamnose also has a characteristically sweet flavor and fragrance and can serve these added cosmetic functions as well.