Plants
use osmolytes in dry environment. They load their cells with organic osmolytes to increase water retention within the cells.
Where can we find osmolytes in nature?
Marine Animals
use osmolytes to match the osmolarity of the surroundings and to counteract the effect of hydrostatic pressure.
Mammals
Osmolytes are found in high concentration in the kidneys of many mammals to help balance the blood osmolarity.
Water is key to healthy skin
The stratum corneum contains 13% water on average. When this level drops, the skin can become dry and flaky, leading to a compromised barrier function. Maintaining optimal hydration is essential for preserving the skin’s integrity.
Supports skin metabolism
Water is essential for the skin’s metabolic processes, including keratinization, where keratin proteins form the outer layer of the skin.
Ensures correct enzyme function
Enzymes in the skin require water to function correctly. This is crucial for processes like desquamation, where old skin cells are shed to make way for new ones.
Maintains tissue elasticity
Water helps maintain the elasticity and suppleness of skin tissues, keeping the skin flexible and resilient.
Preserves skin barrier functions
Water plays a vital role in preserving the skin’s barrier functions, which protect against microbial, physical, and mechanical threats.
Spotlight: Betaine
GENENCARE® OSMS BA natural# betaine is a moisturizing osmolyte sustainably sourced bioactive extracted from sugar beet and upcycled from a sugar production side stream.
Moisturization
According to a clinical study on volunteers with dry skin, GENENCARE® OSMS BA betaine contributes to significantly improve skin moisturization up to 6 hours and reduce visual dryness up to 24 hours after a single application1.
Strengthens Skin Barrier
According to a clinical study on volunteers, GENENCARE® OSMS BA betaine contributes to significantly reduce Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL) over 4 weeks of daily use, with a remaining effect of a few days after the last application.
Reduction of the TEWL is an indication of a stronger skin barrier.
Synergy with Glycerin
According to a sensory evaluation by trained experts, GENENCARE® OSMS BA contributes to significantly reduce the sticky feeling of glycerin during pick up and application and helps provide a silky feeling2.
In rinse-off formulas, it helps to improve the foam volume and stability.
Download our comprehensive study on the synergy between betaine and glycerin
Concept Formulations Featuring Osmolytes
References
[1] Formulated in an emulsion, compared to control
[2] 5 minutes after-feel, mix of powdery and silicone feeling
#All references to “natural” are according to ISO 16128 calculation
Discover More About Osmolytes
IFF teams up with influencers Chemist Confessions to raise awareness of osmolytes
4 Benefits of Osmolytes in Skincare: Nature’s Best-Kept Secret for Hydration and Resilience
What Are Osmolytes? The Natural Moisture Guardians Your Skin Loves
