Mode d'utilisation inuline.

Inulin: What are the different modes of use?

Derived from plants such as chicory and Jerusalem artichoke, inulin is valued for its beneficial effects on the skin and hair. Let's explore together the various possible uses of inulin.

Summary
Published May 17, 2024, updated on May 21, 2024, by Kahina, Scientific Editor — 5 min read
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Inulin as a dietary supplement.

Indeed, it is possible to enjoy the benefits of inulin for the skin by consuming it as a dietary supplement. They are available in the form of powder or granules to be diluted, as well as in certain industrial food products such as milk or yogurts where inulin is sometimes used for its sweetening power. The recommended dose is 9 g per day.

In 2023, Naoko KANDA and her team sought to determine whether a diet enriched with inulin (10% for three weeks) could improve induced psoriatic dermatitis in mice. They found that inulin consumption reduced the severity of the induced dermatitis, as well as the thickness of the epidermis. This diet also decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cells (IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-22, IL-1β, TNF-α, CXCL1, and CXCL2). This effect will help to reduce the inflammation associated with psoriasis, and thus improve the symptoms.

It's important to note that the consumption of inulin increases serum and fecal concentrations of propionate. Oral propionate is known to reduce inflammatory infiltrates and mRNA levels of inflammatory cells in dermatitis. Thus, dietary inulin supplementation could improve psoriasis-type dermatitis, and is therefore attributed with anti-inflammatory effects when taken orally.

The topical application of inulin.

We find inulin in many cosmetic products, such as cleansers, serums, creams, and masks. It is primarily used for its moisturizing properties. Considered safe to use, the concentrations of inulin in skincare products are generally between 0.5 and 3%. Furthermore, there is no danger associated with the interaction of inulin with other ingredients.

Thomas BOYD et al. have demonstrated that the topical application of a tri-biotic complex containing inulin has promoted'skin hydration, a decrease in pathogens (Pseudomonas stutzeri and Sphingomonas anadarae) and an increase in "good" bacteria (Streptococcus mitis and Halomonas desiderata). H. desiderata and S. mitis showed a positive correlation with skin hydration, while P. stutzeri and S. anadarae showed a negative correlation.

Therefore, inulin appears to be the main cause of these positive effects, by rebalancing the metabolism of bacteria. Furthermore, it facilitates the synthesis of lactic acid by bacteria, which controls skin hydration and promotes cellular renewal. Consequently, inulin could reduce skin dryness and flaking.

Furthermore, Edyta SZMUC and her colleagues have examined the antioxidant properties of extracts from Jerusalem artichoke and chicory, from which inulin was extracted and then used in formulations at different doses (1; 2.5; 5; 7.5 and 10%). At 10%, the inulin extracted from the Jerusalem artichoke had a free radical trapping capacity of 80% and the inulin extracted from chicory had 71%. The functionality of inulin would be similar to that of a free radical scavenger, generated by oxidative stress (pollution, UV rays, tobacco, etc.). Thus, it helps to prevent the damage caused by free radicals on the skin, such as the deterioration of dermal fibers.

Using inulin on the hair.

Theinulin is also frequently found in hair care products, namely shampoos, conditioners, and hair serums. These treatments praise the moisturizing and repairing properties of inulin.

However, it should be noted that no scientific study has proven any particular effect of inulin on hair.

However, considering its potential antioxidant properties, we can hypothesize about its usefulness in hair application. Several studies have shown that photo-aggravation of hair oxidation leads to a reduction in hydration and a stiffening of the hair fiber, linked to lipid oxidation.

Although hair pigments (melanin) protect hair proteins by absorbing radiation and then dissipating this energy as heat, they themselves can be affected, leading to gray hair. It can be hypothesized that inulin, by preventing lipoperoxidation through its antioxidant effect, could protect the hair against the action of oxidative stress. This would then allow them to be less dry and less gray. However, these are only assumptions.

Sources

  • LEE W. S. Photoaggravation of hair aging. International Journal of Trichology (2009).

  • SZMUC E. & al. Inulin as an effectiveness and safe ingredient in cosmetics. Polish Journal of Chemical Technology (2019).

  • BOYD T. & al. The prebiotic effect of triple biotic technology on skin health. Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications (2021).

  • BOYD T. & al. Multi-omic approach to decipher the impact of skincare products with pre/postbiotics on skin microbiome and metabolome. Frontiers in Medicine (2023).

  • KANDA N. & al. Dietary fiber inulin improves murine imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis. International Journal of Medical Sciences (2023).

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