"Biosaccharide gum-4": What are its benefits for the skin?

The "biosaccharide gum-4" is an active ingredient that is beginning to be frequently used in the formulation of cosmetic products. This biosaccharide belongs to the family of polysaccharides, which are carbohydrates formed by the condensation of several simple sugars. There are different types of polysaccharides, named according to their various groupings. Polysaccharides generally come from plant sources, but they can also be developed from animal or bacterial sources.

The "biosaccharide gum-4" is more precisely a deacetylated branched polymer derived from sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol extracted from a plant source. It is produced using a patented biotechnological process. This biosaccharide consists of an L-fucose, two D-glucose, and repetitive units of glucuronic acid. It is a high molecular weight anionic polysaccharide.

Polysaccharides are widely known in the food industry. In cosmetics, they are found in the formulations of many skin products such as creams, serums or balms. They help to create a biofilm on the surface to protect the skin against dehydration and thus maintain the skin's hydration level throughout the day.

The "biosaccharide gum-4" thus exhibits a beneficial effect on the hydration of the upper layers of the epidermis. This compound demonstrates a good stability in formulation, whether in terms of pH or temperature. It allows the creation of a 3D matrix on the skin's surface in the form of an "occlusive" film, contributing to the maintenance of skin firmness. This film acts as a physical protective shield on the skin's surface. By creating this hydrating barrier, the "biosaccharide gum-4" ensures good skin hydration by reducing water loss trans-epidermally.

Furthermore, this film-forming effect enhances the penetration of other active ingredients present in the formula. The moisturising properties of "biosaccharide gum-4" provide the skin with a sensation of softness and protection against external aggressions. This way, the skin is better protected against environmental pollution.

Despite the various beneficial effects noted of "biosaccharide gum-4" in terms of hydration and protection, studies on its mechanism of action remain relatively limited at present. Further investigations would be necessary to clarify the different mechanisms involved in the action of the biosaccharide.

• HELDRETH B. & al. Microbial polysaccharides. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (2011).

• CAMPOS P. & al. Immediate and long-term effects of polysaccharides-based formulations on human skin. Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2012).

• CAMARGO F. & al. Effects of polysaccharide-based formulations on human skin. Springer International Publishing Switzerland. (2014).