Beta-Glucan

Beta-glucan is best known as an immune-supporting ingredient in food — but on skin, its job is different: helping the barrier rebuild itself after damage.

Description

What is it?

Beta-glucan is a naturally occurring polysaccharide (a type of complex sugar) found in the cell walls of oats, mushrooms and yeast. In skincare, a water-soluble, cosmetic-grade form is used for its skin-conditioning and repair-supporting properties.

What does it actually do?

Supports skin repair and barrier recovery. According to PubMed, a 2026 study on carboxymethyl beta-glucan (Pichon C, Marat X, Brule A, Black A, Gueniche A. “The harnessing potential of carboxymethyl beta glucan: A driver of skin repair.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026) found that this beta-glucan derivative accelerated wound repair, reduced transepidermal water loss, and increased markers of barrier strength — including tight-junction proteins and collagen — in a 3D reconstructed human skin model. (DOI)

Who is it good for?

Compromised, sensitized or recently-stressed skin (post-sun, post-active-ingredient use), and anyone looking for extra barrier-repair support.

No real precautions — beta-glucan is considered gentle and low-irritation.

How Mystic Dust uses it

Formulated in the Barrier Shield Face Wash.

Pairs well with

Ceramides, Panthenol, Colloidal Oatmeal — other barrier-repair actives.

Use with caution alongside

Nothing specific.

Research & Findings

According to PubMed: -

Pichon C, Marat X, Brule A, Black A, Gueniche A. “The harnessing potential of carboxymethyl beta glucan: A driver of skin repair.” International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026. DOI