Trehalose
Trehalose is a gentle, plant-derived sugar that works as a powerful humectant and skin protectant in moisturisers, serums and masks. It helps draw and lock in moisture while shielding the skin from dryness and environmental stress, leaving it soft, supple and comfortable.
How it works in skincare
In skincare and cosmetic formulations trehalose functions as an exceptional humectant and stabilising agent. It binds water molecules to the skin’s surface, preventing transepidermal water loss, while its unique disaccharide structure helps protect proteins and cell membranes from dehydration and oxidative damage during product use and environmental exposure. This makes it especially useful in lightweight hydrating creams, sheet masks and hair conditioners where it improves texture, enhances spreadability and contributes to a smooth, non-sticky finish.
Key benefits
- Provides long-lasting hydration
- Strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier
- Helps protect against environmental dryness
- Improves product texture and feel
- Enhances skin softness and smoothness
- Suitable for sensitive and dehydrated skin
Best for
dry skin, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, mature skin
Where it comes from
Trehalose is a naturally occurring disaccharide found in plants such as resurrection plants, certain mushrooms, and yeasts. It is typically produced for cosmetic use by enzymatic conversion of starch from plant sources like corn or tapioca.
Products with Trehalose
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Trehalose than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.