Why polysaccharide gels are gaining ground in sensitive skin formulations
Fucogel is a water-based gel produced through biotechnological fermentation using fucose and gluconic acid, known for its ability to hold moisture within the upper layers of the skin and create a light protective film on the surface. This ingredient belongs to the category of Moisturizing actives and is widely used in the production of facial and body care products, including creams, serums and emulsions designed for sensitive or reactive skin, as well as anti-age formulations requiring long-lasting hydration without a heavy texture.
Across global formulation practice, this type of polysaccharide gel is a common choice for products targeting sensitive, atopic and easily irritated skin, since it supports the natural lipid barrier and reduces the feeling of tightness. It performs well in day and night creams, after-shave or after-depilation gels, eye contour products, and formulations intended for babies or adults with dry skin. Beyond conventional skincare, demand for this type of gel is also growing in recovery-focused products used after peels, laser treatments and other professional skin procedures.
Fucogel shows good compatibility with most water-phase active ingredients. It is often paired with urea, available as Urea 50 g, since combining the two enhances the overall moisturizing effect through complementary mechanisms - urea acts as a natural moisturizing factor while the gel forms a protective surface film. Another strong pairing is AQUAXYL 100 g, which further stimulates the skin's own moisture-retaining processes, while adding a broad-spectrum preservative such as NUF Lactone 50 ml helps ensure the stability of the finished formulation throughout its shelf life.
The gel should be introduced into the water phase during the cooling stage, at a temperature not exceeding 40-45 degrees Celsius, to avoid breaking down its polysaccharide structure. A typical usage rate ranges from 1 to 5 percent of the total formulation weight, depending on the desired texture and required level of hydration. It is recommended to mix the product thoroughly before weighing, as its structure may slightly separate during storage. Store the raw material in a tightly closed container, in a cool place protected from direct sunlight, avoiding sudden temperature fluctuations.
The 1-liter packaging is suited for small-batch and studio-scale cosmetic production, making it a practical choice for laboratories and emerging brands that manufacture limited, recurring batches of creams and serums and need a reliable, consistent supply of raw material without excess stock.
Calming hydration gel for reactive skin
Fucogel 35 ml
AQUAXYL 20 ml
Urea 10 g
Glycerin 30 ml
Distilled water 900 ml
NUF Lactone 5 ml
Dissolve the urea and glycerin in distilled water at room temperature, then blend in the AQUAXYL until fully combined. Slowly add the Fucogel while stirring gently at low speed to avoid introducing air bubbles. Once the mixture reaches a uniform consistency, add the preservative, mix briefly and transfer the finished gel into dispensing bottles.