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hydrolyzed sclerotium gum

Also known as: Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum, Sclerotium Gum

Overview

Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is a natural polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of *Sclerotium rolfsii*, a filamentous fungus. It is primarily utilized in cosmetic and topical formulations as a skin-conditioning agent and a natural thickening agent. This biopolymer is valued for its ability to improve moisture retention, enhance the texture and spreadability of products, and impart a silky, smooth feel to the skin. Key characteristics include excellent hydrating properties, thermal stability, and favorable rheological (flow) properties. While widely used in the cosmetic industry, direct clinical research on its efficacy in humans is limited, with most available information stemming from cosmetic ingredient databases, in vitro studies, and formulation research rather than extensive clinical trials. It functions by forming a hydrophilic film on the skin surface, which helps to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and thereby improve skin hydration.

Benefits

Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum primarily offers cosmetic benefits. Its main effect is improving skin moisture retention and hydration by forming a hydrophilic film on the skin surface, which helps reduce transepidermal water loss. It also significantly enhances product texture and spreadability, contributing to a smooth skin feel upon application. As a secondary benefit, it acts as an effective thickening agent, improving the stability and sensory properties of topical formulations. The benefits are immediate upon topical application in terms of skin feel and hydration. However, there is a notable absence of high-quality, peer-reviewed clinical trials or systematic reviews specifically on hydrolyzed sclerotium gum to quantify effect sizes or establish long-term clinical significance. Most supporting data come from cosmetic ingredient profiles and formulation studies, indicating a good safety profile and cosmetic utility, but lacking rigorous clinical evidence.

How it works

Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum functions primarily as a film-forming agent on the skin's surface. As a polysaccharide, it creates a hydrophilic (water-attracting) film that helps to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), thereby enhancing the skin's ability to retain moisture. This physical barrier contributes to improved skin hydration. Its interaction is localized to the skin barrier; there is no reported systemic absorption or metabolic interaction. It does not have specific molecular targets but rather exerts its effects through its physical properties, primarily hydration and film formation.

Side effects

Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is generally regarded as safe for topical use in cosmetic formulations. There are no reported common, uncommon, or rare side effects associated with its use. No drug interactions have been identified, and there are no documented contraindications for its use. It is considered safe for the general population, and no specific contraindications have been reported for sensitive skin or other special populations. Its safety profile is primarily based on its topical application and lack of systemic absorption, limiting potential adverse systemic effects. As a cosmetic ingredient, it is well-tolerated, and adverse reactions are not typically observed.

Dosage

Due to the lack of clinical studies, a minimum effective dose for Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum has not been established. In cosmetic formulations, it is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 2%. The optimal dosage within this range depends on the specific product type and desired rheological properties. There is no defined maximum safe dose, as its usage is generally limited by formulation requirements rather than toxicity concerns. It can be incorporated into both daytime and nighttime skincare routines. This ingredient is commonly found in various topical products such as creams, lotions, and serums. Since it is not systemically absorbed, its efficacy is entirely dependent on its formulation and proper topical application. It is often combined with other hydrating agents like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides to enhance overall moisture retention.

FAQs

Is hydrolyzed sclerotium gum safe?

Yes, Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is considered safe for topical use in cosmetic products, with no known adverse effects reported.

Does it provide lasting hydration?

It improves moisture retention by forming a hydrophilic film on the skin. While immediate hydration is observed, long-term clinical data on lasting effects are limited.

Can it be used with other moisturizers?

Yes, it synergizes well with other hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, enhancing overall moisturizing benefits.

Is it absorbed systemically?

No, Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum acts topically on the skin and is not absorbed into the bloodstream.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, it is generally well-tolerated and no specific contraindications have been reported for sensitive skin.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35434703/ – This source likely discusses the properties or applications of polysaccharides in cosmetics, potentially including sclerotium gum, highlighting their role in skin conditioning and formulation stability. It contributes to understanding the broader context of natural polymers in skincare.
https://japsonline.com/admin/php/uploads/3416_pdf.pdf – This PDF likely contains research on the rheological or functional properties of various gums or polysaccharides, which could include sclerotium gum. It provides insights into how these ingredients behave in formulations and their potential benefits for texture and stability.
https://www.myrevea.com/ingredient-explorer/hydrolyzed-sclerotium-gum/ – This source provides a detailed profile of Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum as a cosmetic ingredient. It likely covers its definition, uses, benefits, and safety profile from an industry perspective, serving as a key reference for its application in skincare.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19763686/ – This PubMed entry may relate to studies on the properties of various gums or biopolymers, potentially including sclerotium gum, in cosmetic or pharmaceutical applications. It could offer insights into their film-forming, thickening, or moisturizing capabilities.
https://learncanyon.com/ingredients/sclerotium-gum/ – This source offers information on Sclerotium Gum, which is the non-hydrolyzed form of the ingredient. It likely details its general properties, uses, and benefits in cosmetic formulations, providing foundational knowledge for understanding its hydrolyzed counterpart.