Ingredient dictionary

Xylitol

Also listed as: Birch sugar

Xylitol is a plant-derived sugar alcohol that attracts and holds water in a formula. Its main job is to help products hydrate and feel smooth. It is on the label of 26 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 Xylitol does

Attracts and holds water in the skin
Helps formulas feel soft and smooth
Blends easily into water-based products

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol, a type of molecule related to sugars but chemically distinct. It is usually made from xylose, a sugar found in birch wood and corn cobs, which is turned into xylitol through a simple chemical step called hydrogenation. Small amounts also occur naturally in some fruits and vegetables.

Formulators use xylitol as a humectant, a type of ingredient that draws water toward the skin's surface and helps it stay there. Because it holds moisture well, it helps lotions and cleansers leave skin feeling softer and less tight. It is clear, dissolves easily in water, and adds a light, non-greasy feel, so it blends smoothly into water-based products.

Good for

Suits people who want gentle, hydrating cleansers and moisturizers, including products for sensitive skin.

Be careful if

Nothing in particular for most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is xylitol safe for skin?

Xylitol is generally well tolerated in skincare and is widely used in cosmetic formulas. Most people find it gentle. As with any ingredient, a patch test is a sensible step if your skin is very reactive or you notice irritation.

Is xylitol the same as sugar?

No. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol, which is chemically different from table sugar. It tastes sweet, but in skincare its main job is to attract and hold water, not to sweeten the product.