Ingredient dictionary

Mannitol

Mannitol is a sugar alcohol, a sweet-tasting carbohydrate that attracts and holds water, mainly used as a humectant and mild bulking agent. It is on the label of 19 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Mannitol does

Draws water toward the skin's surface
Adds a mild, smooth feel to rinse-off products
Dissolves easily in water-based formulas

Mannitol is a sugar alcohol. It occurs naturally in some seaweeds, fungi and plants, but the mannitol used in cosmetics is usually made by chemically converting fructose, a common sugar. Chemically, it belongs to the same family as glycerin and sorbitol, which are also polyols, meaning molecules with several water-loving groups.

Formulators like mannitol because it dissolves easily in water and has a light, clean feel. It is a humectant, so it helps a formula hold on to moisture. You will often find it in rinse-off products such as micellar water, cleansers, body washes and shampoos, where it helps the wash feel smooth and balanced.

Good for

Suits people looking for a gentle, moisture-friendly cleanser or wash, including products designed for sensitive skin.

Frequently asked questions

Is mannitol a sugar?

Mannitol is related to sugar but is a different molecule, a sugar alcohol. Formulators use it for its water-holding ability, not for sweetness. It is a common, well-known cosmetic ingredient that is typically used in small amounts.

Is mannitol good for sensitive skin?

Mannitol is generally well tolerated, and it is often found in gentle, rinse-off products. Like any ingredient, it can still affect someone with a specific sensitivity. If your skin reacts easily, check the full ingredient list and patch test a new product on a small area first.