Anhydroxylitol

Functions
Humectant
Skin conditioning
CAS Number(s)
53448-53-6
EINECS number(s)
258-560-9
FDA UNII
8XWR7NN42F

Anhydroxylitol is a synthetic cyclic sugar derived from xylitol by dehydration in an acid medium. It is a highly water-soluble and very hygroscopic substance.

Thanks to its small molecule size, Anhydroxylitol quickly penetrates the stratum corneum of the skin epidermis. It attracts water molecules and acts as an effective humectant due to multiple OH groups in structure, improving hydration, water retention ability, and skin elasticity.

Combined with other carbohydrates, Anhydroxylitol is used in many famous moisturizing complexes, like Aquaxyl™ and Xylishine™, where it acts as a humectant and potentiates other sugars' moisturizing effects. In addition, those complexes reported have additional cosmetic effects like boosting hyaluronic acid production, improving barrier function, and reducing desquamation.

Anhydroxylitol is a safe ingredient for skin care applications. It is classified as non-irritating, non-mutagenic, non-sensitizing, and non-toxic. In high concentrations, it is slightly irritating to the eyes.
Synonyms
1,4-Anhydro-D-xylitol

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