Beta-Glucan might not be the most talked-about ingredient in the beauty world, yet. But this powerhouse humectant, derived from sources like oats, mushrooms, and yeast, is quietly making waves in Korean skincare, and for good reason. Often overshadowed by more famous hydrators like hyaluronic acid, beta-glucan delivers serious hydration, healing, and barrier-boosting benefits that deserve the spotlight.
Originally known for its immune-boosting effects in supplements, beta-glucan’s ability to retain moisture, soothe irritation, and protect against oxidative stress makes it a rising star in topical skincare. Korean brands in particular have harnessed this ingredient in everything from toners to serums and creams. So if your skin has been feeling dry, sensitive, or just needs a gentle reset, beta-glucan could be your new holy grail.
Beta-glucan is a type of polysaccharide (a long chain of sugar molecules) found naturally in the cell walls of oats, barley, mushrooms, yeast, and even seaweed. In skincare, it acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, while also forming a light protective layer over the skin barrier.
But what really sets it apart is its molecular structure. Unlike some humectants that only sit on the surface, beta-glucan can penetrate deeper layers of the skin, delivering hydration where it’s needed most. Plus, it has natural antioxidant and soothing properties that make it ideal for calming stressed, inflamed, or irritated skin.
Beta-glucan holds up to 20% more moisture than hyaluronic acid, making it a powerful moisture magnet. While HA is often praised for its water-retention capabilities, beta-glucan takes it a step further by forming a protective film over the skin to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Beta-glucan is a go-to for calming irritated skin. It’s been studied for its ability to reduce redness, itchiness, and signs of inflammation, which makes it a perfect post-treatment or post-sun ingredient.
If your skin barrier is compromised, due to harsh weather, over-exfoliation, or treatments. Beta-glucan helps restore and strengthen it. It enhances the skin’s ability to defend against environmental stressors and retains moisture for longer periods.
This ingredient doesn’t just hydrate, it protects. Beta-glucan has antioxidant properties that shield skin from free radical damage, helping to slow the signs of aging.
If you’re wondering whether to ditch your hyaluronic acid serum for beta-glucan, here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose.
While hyaluronic acid is known for drawing moisture to the skin, beta-glucan does that and adds extra barrier protection. Its larger molecular weight means it forms a more protective film, ideal for preventing dehydration and sensitivity flare-ups.
Yes, and they work beautifully together. HA attracts water, and beta-glucan helps trap it in the skin for longer-lasting hydration. Together, they’re a moisture dream team.
Short answer: everyone.
But it’s especially effective for:
Beta-glucan is gentle enough for daily use and rarely causes irritation or allergic reactions, making it a safe choice across all skin types.
You’ll most often find beta-glucan in:
Beta-glucan plays well with almost all your skincare favorites:
If your skin is sensitive, be cautious about layering beta-glucan with strong exfoliants or retinoids. Introduce them slowly or alternate on different days.
Looking to add beta-glucan into your routine? Here are some of the best Korean skincare products featuring this multitasking ingredient. Editor-tested, skin-approved, and loved for their ability to hydrate, calm, and protect.
Beauty of Joseon’s popular sunscreen duo delivers high SPF50+ PA++++ protection with lightweight, breathable textures. The Original gives a nourishing glow, while Aqua-Fresh offers a refreshing, matte finish ideal for oily or combination skin. Both formulas are infused with beta-glucan, rice extract, and niacinamide to hydrate and calm sensitive skin.
Designed to be used interchangeably depending on your skin’s daily needs, this set is both functional and elegant. Beta-glucan soothes irritation and locks in moisture, making it perfect for those with reactive or dry skin. No white cast, no stickiness, just soft, protected skin.
Best for: Dryness, Sensitivity, Sun Damage
Key Benefit: Deep hydration with rice extract and UV protection
Where to Buy: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Duo
Experience the power of Sulwhasoo’s iconic anti-aging serum, featured in this luxurious gift set and formulated with ginseng saponins to visibly lift, firm, and smooth the skin. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly and deeply nourishes, making skin appear more resilient and radiant. Beta-glucan adds a soothing layer of hydration, strengthening the skin barrier.
This set also includes complementary deluxe-sized items that complete a full anti-aging routine. The combination of ginseng and beta-glucan delivers antioxidant support while replenishing moisture levels for mature or fatigued skin. Elegant and effective, it’s a standout addition to any skincare regimen.
Best for: Wrinkles, Aging
Key Benefit: Firming and antioxidant care from ginseng and beta-glucan
Where to Buy: Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Serum Set
This multitasking formula combines the richness of an eye cream with the versatility of a facial moisturizer. It targets fine lines, dullness, and dryness with a blend of peptides, vitamins, and beta-glucan. The lightweight cream absorbs quickly, making it suitable for both day and night use.
Perfect for busy routines, this cream improves elasticity while calming sensitive areas like under-eyes or smile lines. Beta-glucan supports hydration and barrier recovery, giving skin a smoother, more radiant look over time.
Best for: Aging, Dryness, Dullness, Sagging, Wrinkles
Key Benefit: Firming and hydration support for the whole face
Where to Buy: AHC Supreme Real Eye Cream
This calming toner is a go-to for sensitive and acne-prone skin, formulated with five types of Centella Asiatica and beta-glucan. It balances oil production, hydrates deeply, and reduces redness without clogging pores. The watery texture preps your skin to absorb serums and moisturizers more effectively.
With continued use, the skin appears more even-toned and less reactive. Beta-glucan works in synergy with cica to restore comfort and reinforce your skin barrier, ideal after breakouts or when skin feels overworked.
Best for: Sensitivity, Acne, Dryness
Key Benefit: CICA complex and beta-glucan calm and hydrate stressed skin
Where to Buy: Dr.G Red Blemish Toner
d’Alba’s premium gift set unites its most beloved formulations, enriched with white truffle extract, niacinamide, and beta-glucan to hydrate, brighten, and revitalize tired skin. The First Aromatic Spray Serum provides an instant moisture boost and glow, while the Double Serum and Cream deliver deep nourishment with a unique oil-water balance.
Beta-glucan in each product supports the skin barrier while calming irritation and locking in hydration. With luxurious textures and a visible glow effect, this set offers a full routine that feels as good as it looks.
Best for: Aging, Dryness, Sagging, Unevenness
Key Benefit: White truffle + beta-glucan for firming and brightening
Where to Buy: d’Alba White Truffle Set
Absolutely. If your skin is feeling dry, flaky, inflamed, or just out of balance, beta-glucan is the gentle yet effective fix your routine needs. It hydrates more deeply than many popular ingredients, strengthens the barrier, calms irritation, and even protects against free radicals.
It’s especially helpful for people dealing with sensitivity, dehydration, or post-treatment recovery. And best of all, it works well with other gentle actives, making it one of the most versatile and underrated skincare ingredients out there.
Just remember: as with any new product, patch test first!
Explore our curated collection of beta-glucan-infused Korean skincare here at Skin Seoul, where each product is handpicked to nourish, protect, and restore your skin with the best of K-beauty innovation.
I was lucky enough to test out this wonderful cream by Wellage. The Real Hyaluronic Cream 100 is so rich and emollient. It goes on so beautifully and soaked right into my skin. My skin remained hydrated throughout the entire day and looked so radiant and beautiful! There is no scent to this product which is a plus for me. I used this in the morning under my makeup and at night before bed. I am thrilled with the results on my very dry skin! Really loving this and have incorporated it into my skincare routine!
Just received my Iope vital serum cannot really comment if it helps my skin but the customer service is excellent will order from again
I have been using the Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Deep Cleanser for two weeks and I think it's brilliant!
I don't have acne prone skin, but I do have a lot of redness and uneven tone. The first time I used this I was concerned it may be drying, but my skin felt very comfortable after using it, which was impressive because so many cleansers are drying for my skin. The smooth, creamy texture felt soft on my skin and the scent was earthy, which was pleasant.
It paired beautifully with my hemp seed cleansing balm for a double cleanse every night and even in the morning when I only used the Anua, my skin was visibly cleaner, as if I'd double cleansed. It really is a true deep cleanser. The redness on my face seems to have improved too, which were better results than I'd hoped for.
After the initial two weeks I used a hemp-based cleanser that I had just received and was excited to try. After two days I went straight back to the Anua deep cleanser because my skin was much happier with this new cleanser that I'll be continuing to use daily!
I really do highly recommend this!
It is a good product, it works great and helps reduce acne. I recommend it.
It is a good product, it works great and helps reduce acne. I recommend it.
I am in my early 70's, up until recently I was never that careful with my skin. I did not realize you could do anything to make a true difference in your skin. In the US we don't take care of our skin like folks do in other countries, our loss. On a whim I purchased this product in the hopes I could do something good for my "age spots" on my hands and face. To my happy surprise, this worked! I keep one in my purse one in our master bath and one in my office on the main floor of our house, and apply it regularly. These little tubes are so convenient! My age spots are fading very nicely and I do look better. Am I younger or can I play the violin? NO, but my skin looks much better and that makes me feel good. Shipping was quick especially since it traveled half way around the globe, the price is reasonable, and customer service is very helpful. The box it was shipped in was a bit battered, but the products were well protected and arrived in perfect condition. I bought 2 -4 packs, and gave 3 away for friends to try, I like this stuff that much. I will be back for more and many other products as well. Very nice Company to deal with.
Love this set, I love how clean and dewy my skin looks and feels
The products are all lovely in this set. Very nice on the skin.
I have sensitiv skin, and the this has been lifesaver! It's incredibly hydrating and has helped soothe and repair my skin barrier. The essence absorbs quickly, leaving it refreshed and moisturized. I've noticed a significant improvement in my skin's overall health and texture.highly recommend this essence to anyone with sensitive or dry skin!
It is my first time to try this brand but I like their light texture and fast absorption. Great for oily skin and Singapore weather.
The delivery was fast and no dents on the package.
Great product
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