Ingredient dictionary

Mannitol

Mannitol is a sugar alcohol, a sweet-tasting carbohydrate that attracts and holds water, mainly used as a humectant and mild bulking agent. It is on the label of 16 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: none for most people; check the full product list if your skin reacts easily.

What Mannitol does

Draws water toward the skin's surface
Adds a mild, smooth feel to rinse-off products
Dissolves easily in water-based formulas

Mannitol is a sugar alcohol. It occurs naturally in some seaweeds, fungi and plants, but the mannitol used in cosmetics is usually made by chemically converting fructose, a common sugar. Chemically, it belongs to the same family as glycerin and sorbitol, which are also polyols, meaning molecules with several water-loving groups.

Formulators like mannitol because it dissolves easily in water and has a light, clean feel. It is a humectant, so it helps a formula hold on to moisture. You will often find it in rinse-off products such as micellar water, cleansers, body washes and shampoos, where it helps the wash feel smooth and balanced.

Good for

Suits people looking for a gentle, moisture-friendly cleanser or wash, including products designed for sensitive skin.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is mannitol a sugar?

Mannitol is related to sugar but is a different molecule, a sugar alcohol. Formulators use it for its water-holding ability, not for sweetness. It is a common, well-known cosmetic ingredient that is typically used in small amounts.

Is mannitol good for sensitive skin?

Mannitol is generally well tolerated, and it is often found in gentle, rinse-off products. Like any ingredient, it can still affect someone with a specific sensitivity. If your skin reacts easily, check the full ingredient list and patch test a new product on a small area first.