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Humectant

LACTOSE

CAS 63-42-3
90

Safety score · 0–100

Excellent

Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.

Milk sugar — a small carbohydrate humectant that helps draw moisture and bulks out powders. Food-grade safety, gentle on skin, and a substrate for many fermented cosmetic actives like xylitylglucoside.

Skin benefits

  • Mild humectant and skin conditioner
  • Bulking agent in powders
  • Sugar substrate for fermented derivatives
  • Excellent tolerance, food-grade

Known concerns

  • No significant concerns at cosmetic concentrations

References

EU

EU CosIng database

European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.

PC

PubChem

U.S. NIH compound data, GHS hazard codes and toxicity literature.

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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.