Trehalose (from Turkish ‘trehala’ – a sugar derived from insect cocoons) is a sugar consisting of two molecules of glucose. It is also known as mycose or tremalose. 

Trehalose has high water retention capabilities, and is used in food, cosmetics and as a drug. Trehalose helps to moisture the skin, trapping moisture into the skin. It also acts an antioxidant helping to protect the skin from sun damage and aging.

Trehalose works to moisturize the skin because it reflects the composition of Natural Moisturizing Factor found within the skin’s epidermis. The Natural Moisturizing Factor is an expansive group of substances including amino acids, PCA, lactates, sugars, salts, urea, and peptides. All of these substances work together to keep the skin’s surface intact, supple, and hydrated. 

Regular exposure to sensitizing ingredients such as drying cleansing agents and denatured alcohol can also deplete the Natural Moisturizing Factor. The result is visibly dry, tight-feeling, flaky skin.

As a sugar, trehalose mimics the sugars found in Natural Moisturizing Factor, effectively drawing in moisture to maintain skin hydration. The skin barrier is an important component for protecting the skin from bacteria and allergens and maintain water levels in the skin. 

In addition to moisturizing the skin, trehalose can also protect important cellular components. It can form special structures above the cell membrane that can protect molecular structures from being damaged or destroyed. When trehalose comes in contact with water, it creates a crystalline structure with neighboring water molecules. 

The natural protective functions of trehalose help to prevent skin and hair damage caused by exposure to harsh environmental factors, such as UV radiation, pollution, smoke, and irritants. Additionally, trehalose has been shown to protect fibroblasts, the cells in connective tissue that produce collagen, from dehydration.