Why is beta-glucan so valuable for the skin?
What is beta-glucan?
Beta-glucan is a powerful natural plant ingredient from the germ layer of oat grains. Yeast and certain types of mushrooms such as shiitake or reishi are also rich in beta-glucan. Chemically speaking, it is a polysaccharide (multiple sugar). Beta-glucan has been intensively studied in scientific studies for years, which prove its versatile effectiveness. It is extremely well tolerated, has no unwanted side effects and is therefore particularly recommended for very sensitive skin. The bioactive power ingredient is an essential component of myrto day creams, face masks, night creams and face serums. Beta-glucan is particularly valuable for the skin for several reasons.
Benefits of Beta-Glucan in Facial Care
In facial care, people with a weakened skin barrier, problematic or highly sensitive skin in particular benefit from the potent active ingredient. These are the most important benefits of beta-glucan in skin care:- Strengthening the skin barrier: Beta-glucan supports the production of ceramides and other lipids (fats) in the skin. A strong skin barrier is important to lock in moisture in the skin and protect the skin from damaging external influences.
- Deep hydration: Beta-glucan moisturizes and sustainably improves the moisture content of the skin. Beta-glucan has the ability to bind moisture in the upper layers of the skin and minimize water loss through the skin (TEWL = transepidermal water loss).
- Anti-inflammatory & soothing properties: Beta-glucan inhibits inflammation and soothes the skin. It reduces redness, itching and irritation. Beta-glucan helps to relieve skin conditions such as acne, eczema or rosacea and to bring stressed skin back into balance.
- Improved wound healing: Beta-glucan promotes the formation of new skin cells and supports the healing process of pimples, acne scars and other skin injuries.
- Repair of cell damage: Beta-glucan has the ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that cause cell damage and accelerate skin aging. Due to its strong antioxidant effect, beta-glucan is able to repair cell damage and slow down skin aging.
- Booster for the skin's own immune system: Beta-glucan can activate certain immune cells such as macrophages and natural killer cells, which fight off pathogens and infections on the skin.
- Preventive skin protection against UV damage: With its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, beta-glucan helps protect the skin from UV-related damage. This does not mean that the skin does not need additional sun protection.
- Activation of collagen production: Collagen is a protein that improves the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Beta-glucan stimulates collagen production, slowing down skin aging (slow aging). Fine lines and wrinkles are smoothed out, and the skin appears firmer and more youthful.
Benefits of Beta-Glucan in Scalp and Hair Care
Beta-glucan also offers important benefits in scalp and hair care and is an indispensable active ingredient in myrto organic scalp serums, organic conditioners and organic hair masks:
- Antimicrobial properties: Beta-glucan protects the scalp from harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. Beta-glucan therefore promotes a healthy microbiome and brings the scalp into natural balance.
- Stimulating keratin production: Beta-glucan stimulates the Langerhans cells, which produce keratin. Hair is made up of approximately 90% keratin.
- Heat protection: Beta-glucan coats the hair shaft with an elastic film. This provides immediately effective heat protection. Beta-glucan protects the hair from heat-related damage caused by styling tools such as curling irons, straighteners or hair dryers.
- Improved hair structure: Beta-glucan moisturizes damaged hair, keeps it elastic and resilient. This prevents hair breakage.
