Ingredient dictionary

Glucose

Also listed as: Dextrose, Grape sugar

Glucose is a simple sugar, usually made from corn or other starches. In skincare it mainly acts as a humectant, helping the skin hold onto water. It is on the label of 36 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Glucose does

Draws water toward the outer skin layer
Helps skin feel soft and smooth
Adds light moisture to cleansers and serums

Glucose is the simplest form of sugar, a small molecule that many plants and animals use for energy. In cosmetics it is usually made by breaking down plant starch, most often from corn, with water and enzymes. It dissolves easily in water, so it blends smoothly into water-based formulas.

Formulators use glucose mainly as a humectant. That means it draws water toward the skin and helps the skin stay hydrated. You will often see it in cleansers, body washes, serums, and moisturizers. It is a familiar, low-key ingredient that suits many everyday formulas.

Good for

Suits people who want a simple, gentle way to add water-holding moisture to dry or dull-feeling skin.

Frequently asked questions

Is dextrose the same as glucose?

Dextrose is another name for glucose, the same simple sugar. You may see either name on a label. Both are used in formulas mainly to help skin hold on to water.

Is glucose good for sensitive skin?

Glucose is generally well tolerated and is not a common irritant. Like any ingredient, a new product can still cause a reaction, so testing a small patch of skin first is a sensible habit.