Skincare products containing glycogen.

Glycogen is a polysaccharide molecule, meaning it is composed of a chain of many glucose units linked together, forming a complex structure. It is the primary form of carbohydrate storage in the human body. Glycogen is mainly found in the liver and muscles, but a small portion is also present in the epidermis, where it is believed to play a role in the production of ceramides. As a reminder, ceramides are the intercellular lipids of the corneal layer that make up the skin barrier. When applied topically, glycogen has moisturizing and potentially firming properties, explaining its increasing use in cosmetic formulation.

• Moisturizing Cream : Glycogen can primarily be found in moisturizing creams due to its humectant action. This hydrophilic sugar indeed has good water absorption capabilities and helps to prevent skin dehydration. Suitable for all skin types, glycogen can be incorporated into moisturizing creams with either a light or rich texture. However, it is most commonly found in products designed for mature skin. It indeed has an interesting anti-wrinkle potential and could potentially stimulate the activity of fibroblasts, the cells that produce the collagen and elastin of the dermis's extracellular matrix.

• Mask : There are also masks that contain glycogen. To be used once or twice a week, this type of treatment works deeply on the various layers of the epidermis to provide the skin with all the active ingredients it needs. There are as many face masks as there are skin concerns. Those containing glycogen often target dehydration, dryness, and aging.

• Sunscreen Cream : Glycogen is neither a chemical nor an organic filter, but it sometimes enters into the formulation of sun care products. It then improves the texture of the product, making it more comfortable for the skin and providing the care with a dual effectiveness: protection from UV rays thanks to the filters and hydration/prevention of photoaging thanks to glycogen.

• Serum : Some hydrating serums or those targeting skin firmness also contain glycogen. Most often, this active ingredient is combined with hyaluronic acid, a well-known moisturizer. A recent study has shown that there is a synergistic effect between these two molecules, explaining their frequent combination.

• Eye Contour : Glycogen can finally be incorporated into certain treatments intended for the eye contour, a delicate area requiring special attention. Here again, it plays a moisturizing role and contributes to the prevention of dehydration fine lines, these small superficial streaks that form at the corner of the eyes when the shield formed by the skin barrier is weakened and can no longer retain water.