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Levan (Bacterial Fructan)

A microbially produced fructan polysaccharide — an exceptional film-forming hydrator with anti-aging, prebiotic, and protective properties superior to many plant-derived alternatives.

HydratingFilm-formingAnti-agingPrebiotic
✓ Safe

What is it?

Levan is biosynthesized by bacteria from sucrose via the enzyme levansucrase, producing highly branched fructose polymers of varying molecular weight. In cosmetics it's produced by controlled fermentation of Bacillus subtilis and purified for use as a hydrating and film-forming active in serums, moisturizers, and anti-aging products.

Superior film-forming hydration, TEWL reduction, anti-aging via elasticity improvement, prebiotic microbiome support.

Key Benefits

✦
Superior Film-Forming
Levan's branched molecular structure creates a more flexible, uniform film on skin than linear polysaccharides — providing better TEWL reduction and longer-lasting surface hydration.
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Anti-Aging Evidence
Clinical studies show levan application significantly reduces the appearance of fine lines and improves skin elasticity scores over 4–8 weeks of consistent use.
✧
Prebiotic Activity
Like plant fructans, levan selectively nourishes beneficial skin microbiome species, supporting the balance of the skin microbiota.
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Protective Barrier
The uniform film created by levan also provides a physical protective layer against environmental pollutants, allergens, and irritants — reducing the potential for contact reactions.

Suitable for

All skin typesMature skinSensitive skinDehydrated skinMicrobiome-focused routines

Main Actions

✓ Film-forming hydration✓ TEWL reduction✓ Anti-aging✓ Prebiotic
Underappreciated ingredient

Levan is less well-known than hyaluronic acid but has comparable (and in some measurements superior) film-forming and TEWL-reducing performance. It's an ingredient where the science is ahead of the marketing — expect to see it more frequently as microbiome and probiotic skincare continues to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Levan (Bacterial Fructan) do for skin?
Superior film-forming hydration, TEWL reduction, anti-aging via elasticity improvement, prebiotic microbiome support.
Who should use Levan (Bacterial Fructan)?
Levan (Bacterial Fructan) is suitable for: All skin types, Mature skin, Sensitive skin, Dehydrated skin, Microbiome-focused routines.
Are there any warnings about Levan (Bacterial Fructan)?
Levan is less well-known than hyaluronic acid but has comparable (and in some measurements superior) film-forming and TEWL-reducing performance. It's an ingredient where the science is ahead of the marketing — expect to see it more frequently as microbiome and probiotic skincare

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