Xylitol

An organic compound that is most well-known for its use as a sweetener that also protects your teeth from cavities. Xylitol is used in skincare as a moisturizing humectant and has been shown to improve the protective barrier function of the skin.
Moisturizing
Other functions
Origin
Xylitol

Overview

Xylitol is an organic compound that is technically an alcohol according to its chemical composition, but whose structure is more similar to simple sugars. It is most well-known for its use as a sweetener that also protects your teeth from cavities.

Xylitol is used in skincare products as a moisturizing humectant ingredient and has been shown to improve the protective barrier function of the skin, thus preventing moisture loss. It can even slow down the growth of some pathogens. It is naturally found in some fruits but is commercially produced from wood pulp.

It is overall a very good and safe ingredient to have in your moisturizing skincare products.

Science

1
Salli, K., Lehtinen, M. J., Tiihonen, K., & Ouwehand, A. C. (2019). Xylitol’s Health Benefits beyond Dental Health: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients, 11(8), 1813.