Hydration & barrier
Beta-glucan
An oat-derived humectant that hydrates deeper than hyaluronic acid and soothes at the same time.
What it actually does
Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide most commonly sourced from oats or yeast. It holds many times its weight in water like hyaluronic acid does, but the molecule is large enough to also form a thin, soothing film on the surface — so you get hydration plus a quieting effect on reactive skin. Recent K-Beauty essences lean on it as a hyaluronic alternative for sensitive types.
Who it's for
Sensitive or compromised skin that finds straight hyaluronic acid drying in low humidity. A good pick if hyaluronic-heavy products leave you tight.
How to use it
Treat it like a hyaluronic acid — apply to damp skin, seal with moisturizer. Stacks fine with niacinamide, centella, and ceramides.
Products with beta-glucan
6 products
iUNIK
Beta-Glucan 3X Barrier Cream
iUNIK
Beta Glucan Barrier Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
iUNIK
Beta Glucan Daily Moisture Cream
iUNIK
Beta-Glucan Lacto Barrier Milk Essence
iUNIK
Beta Glucan Power Moisture Serum
PETITFEE
Beta Glucan Enzyme Powder Wash
We match by ingredient mentions in product copy from our verified retailers. If we missed a product you know contains beta-glucan, let us know.
Related ingredients
Hyaluronic acid
Hydrationaka Sodium hyaluronate
The water magnet — pulls moisture into the upper skin layers for instant plump.
Snail mucin
Hydrationaka Snail secretion filtrate
Korea's cult hydrator — a glycoprotein-rich filtrate that plumps, soothes, and helps skin recover.
Centella asiatica
Soothingaka Cica, tiger grass
The K-Beauty soothing standard — calms redness, speeds barrier recovery, and quiets reactive skin.