Derived from plants such as chicory and Jerusalem artichoke, inulin is valued for its beneficial effects on the skin and hair. Let us explore together the various possible uses of inulin.
![Mode d'utilisation inuline.](https://media.typology.com/storyblok/2165x2706/1d7e8c07df/cycle2726-2-copie.jpg?twic=v1/quality=70)
- Carnet
- Active Ingredients
- Inulin: What are the different ways to use it?
Inulin: What are the different ways to use it?
Inulin as a dietary supplement.
Indeed, it is possible to benefit from inulin for the skin by consuming it as a dietary supplement. These supplements come in the form of powder or granules to be diluted, as well as in certain industrial food products like milk or yoghurts whereinulin is sometimes used for its sweetening power. The recommended dose is 9 g per day.
In 2023, Naoko KANDA and her team aimed to verify whether a diet enriched with inulin (10% for three weeks) could improve induced psoriatic dermatitis in mice. They found that inulin consumption reduced the severity of induced dermatitis, as well as the thickness of the epidermis. This diet also reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cells (IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-22, IL-1β, TNF-α, CXCL1, and CXCL2). This effect will help to reduce the inflammation associated with psoriasis, and thus improve the symptoms.
It is important to know that the consumption of inulin increases serum and fecal concentrations of propionate. Oral propionate is known to reduce inflammatory infiltrates and mRNA levels of inflammatory cells in dermatitis. Thus, dietary inulin supplementation would improve psoriasis-type dermatitis, and it is therefore attributed anti-inflammatory effects when taken orally.
The cutaneous application of inulin.
Inulin is found in numerous cosmetic products, such as cleansers, serums, creams, and masks. It is primarily used for its hydrating properties. Considered safe for use, the concentrations of inulin in skincare products are generally between 0.5% and 3% . Furthermore, there is no danger associated with the interaction of inulin with other ingredients.
Thomas BOYD et al. demonstrated that the topical application of a tri-biotic complex containing inulin promoted skin hydration, a reduction in pathogens (Pseudomonas stutzeri and Sphingomonas anadarae) and an increase in "good" bacteria (Streptococcus mitis and Halomonas desiderata). H. desiderata and S. mitis showed a positive correlation with skin hydration, whereas P. stutzeri and S. anadarae showed a negative correlation.
Inulin is therefore considered the main cause of these positive effects, by rebalancing the metabolism of bacteria. Additionally, it enables the synthesis of lactic acid by bacteria, which controls skin hydration and promotes cell renewal. Consequently, inulin could reduce skin dryness and flaking.
Furthermore, Edyta SZMUC and her collaborators examined the antioxidant properties of extracts from Jerusalem artichoke and chicory, from which inulin was extracted and then used in formulations at different doses (1; 2.5; 5; 7.5 and 10%). At 10%, inulin extracted from Jerusalem artichoke had a free radical scavenging capacity of 80% and inulin extracted from chicory had a capacity of 71%. The functionality of inulin would be similar to that of a free radical scavenger, generated by oxidative stress (pollution, UV rays, tobacco, etc.). Thus, it helps to prevent the damage caused by free radicals on the skin, such as the deterioration of dermal fibres.
Using inulin on hair.
Theinulin is also frequently found in hair care products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums. These treatments boast the hydrating and reparative properties of inulin.
It is important to note, however, that no scientific study has proven any specific effect of inulin on hair.
However, considering its potential antioxidant properties, we can hypothesise about its usefulness in hair applications. Several studies have shown that photo-aggravation of hair oxidation leads to a reduction in hydration and a stiffening of the hair fibre, associated with lipid oxidation.
Although hair pigments (melanin) protect hair proteins by absorbing radiation and then dissipating this energy as heat, they can themselves be affected, leading to grey hair. It can be hypothesised that inulin, by preventing lipoperoxidation through its antioxidant effect, could protect hair against the action of oxidative stress. This would then allow hair to be less dry and less grey. However, these are only suppositions.
Sources
LEE W. S. Photoaggravation of hair aging. International Journal of Trichology (2009).
SZMUC E. & al. Inulin as an effectiveness and safe ingredient in cosmetics. Polish Journal of Chemical Technology (2019).
BOYD T. & al. The prebiotic effect of triple biotic technology on skin health. Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications (2021).
BOYD T. & al. Multi-omic approach to decipher the impact of skincare products with pre/postbiotics on skin microbiome and metabolome. Frontiers in Medicine (2023).
KANDA N. & al. Dietary fiber inulin improves murine imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis. International Journal of Medical Sciences (2023).
Diagnostic
Understand your skin
and its complex needs.