Why we use Trehalose

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What is Trehalose?

Trehalose, a naturally occurring disaccharide, has garnered significant attention in the skincare industry for its multifaceted benefits. Beyond its well-known hydrating properties, trehalose functions as a prebiotic, supporting the skin's microbiome and enhancing overall skin health. This comprehensive overview delves into the origin of trehalose, its role as a prebiotic, and its advantages for skin and scalp care.

Origin of Trehalose

Trehalose (α-D-glucopyranosyl-α-D-glucopyranoside) is a non-reducing sugar composed of two glucose molecules. It is found naturally in various organisms, including plants, fungi, bacteria, and invertebrates, where it serves as a protective agent under stress conditions. Notably, trehalose is absent in vertebrates. Its ability to stabilise biological structures has made it a subject of interest in both food and cosmetic industries.

Trehalose as a Prebiotic: Supporting the Skin Microbiome

Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that promote the growth and activity of beneficial microorganisms. In skincare, prebiotics help maintain a balanced skin microbiome, which is essential for skin health and resilience. Trehalose acts as a prebiotic by serving as a substrate for commensal skin bacteria, fostering an environment where beneficial microbes can thrive.

A balanced microbiome protects the skin against pathogenic bacteria, reduces inflammation, and enhances barrier function. By incorporating trehalose into skincare formulations, it is possible to support the skin's natural defenses and promote a harmonious microbial ecosystem.

Moisture Retention and Skin Hydration

As a humectant, trehalose attracts and retains water molecules, ensuring prolonged skin hydration. This characteristic is particularly beneficial for maintaining skin moisture levels and preventing dryness.

Enhancement of Skin Barrier Function

Trehalose has been shown to improve the skin's barrier function by influencing key proteins involved in epidermal integrity. Studies indicate that trehalose-treated skin exhibits increased expression of filaggrin (FLG) and transglutaminase 1 (TGM1), proteins crucial for maintaining skin structure and hydration. Additionally, trehalose application has been associated with elevated levels of ceramides, essential lipids that fortify the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. These findings suggest that trehalose contributes to a more resilient and hydrated skin barrier.¹

Antioxidant Properties and Cellular Protection

Trehalose offers protective effects against environmental stressors. Studies have shown that trehalose inhibits oxidative stress by trapping free radicals, which can otherwise cause oxidative damage in cells. It has been reported that trehalose regulates high levels of free radicals by controlling the expression of antioxidant genes and the autophagy pathway. Therefore, trehalose protects the skin from the oxidative and aging effects of damage caused by environmental stressors.

Trehalose in Scalp Care: Prebiotic Benefits

The scalp, like the skin, hosts a diverse microbiome that plays a pivotal role in maintaining its health. An imbalance in this microbial community can lead to issues such as dandruff and irritation. Trehalose, with its prebiotic properties, supports the growth of beneficial scalp microorganisms.

Research has highlighted trehalose's efficacy in scalp care formulations. For instance, Unilever's patent outlines the use of trehalose as a prebiotic that interacts with Staphylococcus hominis, a commensal scalp bacterium, to inhibit the growth of Malassezia restricta, a fungus associated with dandruff. This interaction underscores trehalose's potential in promoting a healthy scalp microbiome and mitigating dandruff symptoms.²

Clinical Evidence Supporting Trehalose's Efficacy

Several studies have substantiated the benefits of trehalose in skincare:

Moisturisation and Barrier Function: A randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind study demonstrated that participants applying a lotion containing sodium trehalose sulfate experienced a significant decrease in transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and an increase in stratum corneum water content over four weeks.¹
Antioxidant Protection: Research indicates that trehalose application reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the skin, thereby protecting against oxidative stress and potential cellular damage.³
Prebiotic Activity: Patents and studies have highlighted trehalose's role in promoting the growth of beneficial skin and scalp microbiota, aiding in the prevention of conditions like dandruff and skin irritation.⁴

Adding Trehalose to your Skincare Routine

Given its multifaceted benefits, trehalose is a valuable addition to skincare and scalp care products. Its hydrating, protective, and prebiotic properties make it suitable for various formulations, including moisturisers, serums, and scalp treatments. For optimal results, consistent application of trehalose-infused products can help maintain skin hydration, support barrier function, and promote a balanced microbiome.

references

1 Dai, X., Mizukami, Y., Watanabe, K., Tsuda, T., Shidahara, M., Yoshida, S., Yatsuzuka, K., Shiraishi, K., Mori, H., Murakami, M., Kawakami, R., Imamura, T., Fujisawa, Y., & Muto, J. (2024). Trehalose Prevents IL-4/IL-13-Induced Skin Barrier Impairment by Suppressing IL-33 Expression and Increasing NRF2 Activation in Human Keratinocytes In Vitro. The Journal of investigative dermatology, S0022-202X(24)02175-4. Advance online publication. doi: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.08.038 Trehalose Prevents IL-4/IL-13-Induced Skin Barrier Impairment by Suppressing IL-33 Expression and Increasing NRF2 Activation in Human Keratinocytes In Vitro.
2 Unilever files patent on prebiotic scalp care formula targeting dandruff. (2022, February 3). CosmeticsDesign-Europe.com. 23 Feb 2025 from Unilever files patent on prebiotic scalp care formula targeting dandruff.
3 Xiao, Z., Yang, S., Chen, J., Li, C., Zhou, C., Hong, P., Sun, S., & Qian, Z.-J. (2020). Trehalose against UVB-induced skin photoaging by suppressing MMP expression and enhancing procollagen I synthesis in HaCaT cells. Journal of Functional Foods, 74, 104198. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.104198 Trehalose against UVB-induced skin photoaging by suppressing MMP expression and enhancing procollagen I synthesis in HaCaT cells.
4 Li, L. (2024, May 20). Uncover The Power of Trehalose for Radiant Skin. Dermafactors. 23 Feb 2025 from Uncover The Power of Trehalose for Radiant Skin.