What Is Lactitol?

Learn about the humectant and skin conditioning characteristics of Lactitol and its usage in personal care products.

What Is Lactitol? Brandon Jones / IngredientReviewer

Last Updated: October 2, 2024

Written by Brandon Jones

What Is Lactitol?

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Lactitol is a substance that can be used in cosmetics to help keep skin hydrated and conditioned. It comes in the form of a powder or colorless liquid and is made using nickel as a catalyst. Lactitol is also used as an artificial sweetener in some low-calorie foods, and it can act as a laxative by stimulating fluid secretion in the small intestine. It has been investigated for use in treating liver disease-related brain issues known as hepatic encephalopathy.

What is the purpose of Lactitol in personal care products? It is used for its humectant and skin conditioning characteristics. Lactitol prevents drying and moisturizes and strengthens skin.

What Are Humectant Ingredients?

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Lactitol has humectant characteristics.

Humectants can be found in many products, such as foods, medicines, and personal care products. The primary role of humectants in these products is to prevent them from drying out, which helps to maintain their texture, quality, and effectiveness.

Many different types of humectants are used in cosmetic products, including glycerin, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol, and urea. Each ingredient has a slightly different chemical structure, offering various skin benefits also. When applied to the skin, humectants draw in moisture from the surrounding environment and help lock it in, keeping the skin hydrated and moisturized while helping improve its texture and appearance.

In food products, humectants play a crucial role in preventing foods from drying out, especially in packaged or processed foods. Examples of common humectants used in food include glycerin, sorbitol, and propylene glycol. These ingredients help to maintain the moisture content of the food, thereby improving its texture and prolonging its shelf life.

Humectants are also commonly used in medicines and other pharmaceutical products. They help to retain moisture in tablets and capsules, which prevents them from breaking down or becoming less effective over time.

What Are Skin Conditioning Ingredients?

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Lactitol has skin conditioning characteristics.

Skin conditioning ingredients improve the texture, feel, and overall appearance of the skin, helping to avoid harmful effects from external factors. Skin conditioning ingredients moisturize the skin and strengthen its natural barrier function to help protect it from damage caused by harsh weather and sunlight. Some skin conditioning ingredients are anti-inflammatory and can help reduce redness and irritated skin.

Safety

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Remember, always read and follow the instructions provided on product labels carefully. If you have any questions or concerns about using a product containing various ingredients, consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before use.