Ingredient review
Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum
INCI: Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum
A gentle, fermented film-former that helps skin feel smooth and hydrated without clogging pores.
In plain English
Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is a natural, fermented sugar that forms a thin, invisible film on your skin. This film helps lock in moisture and makes your skin feel soft and smooth, similar to how a light gel would. It's often used in serums and moisturizers to give a silky, non-sticky finish.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- biotech
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A polysaccharide (a type of complex sugar) produced by fermenting a fungus called Sclerotium rolfsii. The 'hydrolyzed' part means it has been broken down into smaller pieces so it can spread easily and work well on skin.
How it works
When applied, it creates a flexible, breathable film on the skin's surface. This film reduces water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL — the amount of water that evaporates from your skin) and helps other ingredients stay on the skin longer. It also gives a smooth, velvety feel.
Pros
Boosts hydration gently
Forms a breathable film that reduces water loss from the skin, helping it stay hydrated longer without feeling heavy.
Improves product feel
Gives serums and creams a silky, smooth texture that spreads easily and doesn't leave a sticky residue.
Cons and cautions
Can feel tacky at high levels
If used in high concentrations, it may leave a slightly sticky or tacky feel on the skin, especially in humid conditions.
Limited independent research
Most evidence comes from ingredient suppliers rather than large-scale independent studies, so long-term benefits are less certain.
Best for
- People with dry or dehydrated skin looking for extra hydration
- Those who prefer lightweight, gel-like textures
Use caution if
- Individuals with known fungal sensitivity to Sclerotium rolfsii (rare)
Usage tips
Safety summary
Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low risk of irritation or clogging pores, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Research notes
Research supports its ability to reduce transepidermal water loss and improve skin hydration. Most studies are from ingredient manufacturers, but the mechanism is well-understood and consistent with other film-forming polysaccharides.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the US, EU, and most major markets. Generally recognized as safe when used as directed.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Sheet masks, Eye creams
- Environmental note
- Produced via fermentation, which is a relatively low-impact process compared to synthetic alternatives. The raw material is renewable.
Good to know
- It is derived from a natural fermentation process, making it a popular choice in 'clean' or 'green' beauty products.
- Often used as a vegan alternative to animal-derived hyaluronic acid.
Common questions
What is Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum in beauty products?
Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is a natural, fermented sugar that forms a thin, invisible film on your skin. This film helps lock in moisture and makes your skin feel soft and smooth, similar to how a light gel would. It's often used in serums and moisturizers to give a silky, non-sticky finish.
What does Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum do in a beauty product?
When applied, it creates a flexible, breathable film on the skin's surface. This film reduces water loss (transepidermal water loss, or TEWL — the amount of water that evaporates from your skin) and helps other ingredients stay on the skin longer. It also gives a smooth, velvety feel.
Is Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum safe for most people?
Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. It has a low risk of irritation or clogging pores, making it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.
Who should be careful with Hydrolyzed Sclerotium Gum?
Individuals with known fungal sensitivity to Sclerotium rolfsii (rare)
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.