Trehalose (Cosmetic & Food Grade)
Product Overview
Trehalose is a natural non-reducing disaccharide, widely known in biology as the "Sugar of Life." Its primary value does not lie in sweetness, but in its remarkable molecular protection capability under extreme conditions. In high temperatures, extreme cold, dryness, or intense UV environments, trehalose forms a unique protective shield around cells to maintain the structure and activity of biological macromolecules. For cosmetic formulators, this translates to a multi-functional ingredient that delivers hydration, barrier repair, and formula stability—far beyond a standard humectant.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Cosmetic Grade | Food Grade |
|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 99-20-7 (Anhydrous) / 6138-23-4 (Dihydrate) | Same |
| Purity | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 98.0% |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 1.0% | ≤ 1.5% |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder | White crystalline powder |
| Glass Transition Temp (Tg) | ~115 – 120 °C | Same |
| Solubility (Water, 20°C) | 68.9 g/100g | Same |
| Sweetness | ~45% of Sucrose | Same |
(Cosmetic grade features stricter control on purity and moisture content, meeting the higher requirements of formulation consistency and microbial limits.)
Why Formulators Choose It
Unique Hydration Mechanism: Unlike conventional polyols, trehalose forms bound water on the surface of cell membrane lipids. It continuously supplies moisture while protecting sensitive cell membranes from external damage, making it ideal for repairing compromised skin barriers and soothing redness or itching.
Superior Formula Stability:As a non-reducing sugar, trehalose will not undergo the Maillard reaction when heated with amino acids or proteins, preventing discoloration or off-odors in your formula.
Excellent Thermal & Humidity Resistance: With a high glass transition temperature (over 115°C), it remains stable during spray drying and high-temperature sterilization. Its low hygroscopicity prevents powder raw materials from caking during storage and transit—especially crucial for high-heat, high-humidity climates in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Applications
Creams & Lotions:Acts as a core moisturizing and repairing active, synergizing perfectly with D-Panthenol and Sodium Hyaluronate.
Sun Care & After-Sun: Reduces UV-induced cell damage, ideal for soothing and repairing sun-exposed skin.
Color Cosmetics: Its low hygroscopicity helps powders maintain flowability and prevents caking.
Hair & Scalp Care: Provides long-lasting hydration and smoothness to hair and scalp in dry environments.
Food & Nutraceuticals: Prevents starch retrogradation and protein denaturation in frozen foods and supplements.