Inulin is an ingredient that has gained immense recognition in the world of natural skincare in recent years. Although primarily associated with dietetics as a fiber that supports intestinal flora, it is also increasingly appearing in cosmetics—especially those that focus on a holistic approach to skin health.
Why is inulin so popular in cosmetology? It's a natural prebiotic that supports the balance of the skin's microbiome , moisturizes , soothes irritations, and strengthens the hydrolipid barrier. In an age when we increasingly prioritize plant-based ingredients that are safe for the skin and the environment, inulin perfectly meets the needs of conscious consumers.
In this article, we will explain what inulin is , what effects it has on the skin , and why it is worth looking for in cosmetics .
What is inulin?
Inulin is a natural polysaccharide from the fructan group, found in many plants, especially chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, artichoke, garlic, and onion. In botany, it serves as a reserve material, while in cosmetics and dietetics, it is primarily known as a prebiotic – a substance that supports the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
Chemically, inulin is a chain of fructose molecules terminated by glucose. It comes in the form of a white, water-soluble powder that easily integrates into cosmetic formulas. Importantly, inulin is not chemically synthesized—it is obtained from plant raw materials, making it an ingredient consistent with the philosophy of clean beauty and eco-friendly care .
In the cosmetics industry, inulin performs several important functions:
- supports the development of a beneficial skin microbiome while limiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria.
- improves the consistency and stability of formulas,
- has a conditioning effect on the skin,
- supports the protective barrier of the epidermis,
Thanks to this, we are increasingly seeing it in natural cosmetics, dermocosmetics, and products for the care of sensitive, dry, atopic, and problematic skin.
Inulin as an ingredient in cosmetics
Inulin is increasingly appearing on the ingredient lists (INCI) of consciously formulated cosmetics , especially those natural, vegan, and those intended for sensitive skin. Its presence in products is not accidental – it is a multifunctional substance that combines skincare, biotechnological, and sensory properties .
The care properties of inulin
Inulin's most important benefit in cosmetics is its prebiotic role —it provides nourishment for the beneficial bacteria that live on the skin's surface. By strengthening the microbiome, inulin helps maintain skin balance, supports its immunity, and counteracts dysbiosis (disruption of bacterial flora), which can lead to irritation, dryness, or acne.
Inulin also acts as:
- humectant – binds water molecules, improving the skin's hydration level,
- skin and hair conditioner – smoothes, softens and improves texture,
- soothing substance – reduces the feeling of tightness, burning and dryness.
This makes it ideal for post-treatment skin care, dermatological treatments, and cosmetics for dry, overactive, and dehydrated skin.
Natural origin and compliance with eco trends
Inulin fits into current cosmetic trends, such as:
- clean beauty – a clean, safe composition without unnecessary additives,
- skin microbiome-friendly – care that supports the natural skin flora,
- less-is-more – minimalist formulas with high effectiveness,
- sustainable beauty – ingredients sourced in an environmentally responsible manner.
Due to its plant origin , inulin is fully acceptable in vegan and certified natural cosmetics.
How does inulin work on the skin?
Inulin is not only a functional ingredient and plant thickener – its effects have been documented in scientific studies . In skin care, it exhibits prebiotic, soothing, moisturizing, and barrier-strengthening properties , making it a particularly valuable ingredient in cosmetics for sensitive, dry, and problematic skin.
Prebiotic effects of inulin
Inulin doesn't act as a probiotic (it doesn't contain bacteria), but as a prebiotic – it provides nutrients for beneficial bacteria that live on the skin , such as Lactobacillus and Staphylococcus epidermidis . Their proper development affects:
- reduction of irritation,
- inhibition of the development of pathogens,
- improving skin immunity.
A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science showed that after 14 days of using an emulsion with 2% inulin:
- the amount of Staphylococcus epidermidis increased by 63% ,
- the skin pH level stabilized within the range of 5.0–5.3 ,
- and the feeling of itching and burning was reduced in 72% of the subjects with atopic dermatitis .
Source: P. Hachem et al., IJCS, 2018
Impact on the skin microbiome
The balance of the skin microbiome is one of the key factors in skin health. Inulin supports its homeostasis, as confirmed by studies conducted by Evonik Industries , a manufacturer of cosmetic ingredients. In a study of 20 volunteers with acne, after 28 days of using a cream with 1.5% inulin:
- the number of Cutibacterium acnes bacteria (responsible for acne lesions) decreased by 38% ,
- while the beneficial bacteria Staphylococcus epidermidis increased by 49% .
Source: Evonik R&D Dossier (2020),
Moisturizing and soothing properties
Inulin also acts as a natural humectant – it binds water in the epidermis, supporting long-lasting skin hydration. When combined with other sugars (e.g., glucose, fructose), it creates a thin film on the skin that protects against moisture loss.
An application study conducted by Givaudan (formerly Soliance) on the ingredient Inutec® (highly purified inulin) showed that:
- after just one application, the skin hydration level increased by an average of 23.5% (measured with a corneometer),
- after 7 days of use, hydration increased by 42% ,
- 90% of participants felt a reduction in tightness and irritation .
Source: Givaudan Active Beauty – Technical Dossier
| Effect of action | Result | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Growth of beneficial bacteria ( S. epidermidis ) | +63% | IJCS 2018 |
| Decrease in pathogens ( C. acnes ) | –38% | Evonik R&D |
| Increased skin hydration after 7 days | +42% | Givaudan |
| Reduction of irritation in people with atopic dermatitis | 72% | IJCS 2018 |
Inulin in Orientana facial cleansing gel
In Orientana Date + Inulin + Green Tea Gel, inulin plays a key role as a soothing prebiotic , supporting the skin during cleansing—the moment when it's most vulnerable to disruption of the hydrolipid barrier and microbiome. Unlike many traditional cleansing gels, this product not only removes impurities but also actively strengthens the skin's natural defenses .
How does inulin work in this gel?
- Strengthens the skin microbiome – acts as a natural breeding ground for beneficial bacteria, thus supporting the balance of bacterial flora.
- Minimizes irritation and dryness – during cleansing, the skin does not lose moisture or lipids, which is a common problem with traditional detergents.
- Supports a feeling of relief – according to the application study quoted on the packaging, as many as 96% of respondents declared noticeable comfort and skin relief after using the gel – which can be partially attributed to the presence of inulin.
- Maintains natural pH – which is crucial for maintaining skin immunity and reducing inflammation.
Inulin in the composition (INCI) of Orientana facial cleansing gel:
Available as: Inulin
It is accompanied by fructose (Fructose) , which additionally has a moisturizing effect, which may enhance the effect of inulin as a humectant.
Why is this important?
Most cleansing gels rely solely on cleansing agents, which can disrupt the skin's protective barrier. The inclusion of inulin in the formula makes the product gentle yet effective —cleansing while nourishing. This is especially important in skincare:
- sensitive,
- prone to irritation,
- with symptoms of dryness,
- after dermatological procedures.
What skin types is inulin recommended for?
Inulin , as a mild prebiotic ingredient, has a wide range of applications in the care of various skin types—both healthy and those with compromised skin barriers. Thanks to its biocompatibility and natural origin , it can be used in formulas for even the most demanding skin types , including products for children and skin after cosmetic treatments.
Sensitive and reactive skin
Inulin is an ingredient that is exceptionally well-tolerated by hyperreactive skin. Thanks to its soothing and microbiome-restoring properties, inulin:
- reduces the feeling of burning, itching and tightness,
- strengthens the skin's natural immunity,
- helps reduce allergic reactions and hypersensitivity to external factors.
In vivo studies have shown that cosmetics containing inulin soothe redness and irritation after just a few days of use, even in people with atopic dermatitis.
Dry and dehydrated skin
Inulin acts as a natural humectant – it binds water in the stratum corneum of the epidermis, thanks to which:
- improves the hydration level,
- smoothes the skin surface,
- helps reduce the feeling of roughness and tension.
Importantly, inulin works synergistically with other sugars (e.g. fructose) and plant lipids, thus supporting the reconstruction of the hydrolipid barrier , which is often weakened in people with dry skin.
Oily and acne-prone skin
While it may seem surprising, inulin is also effective in treating oily and acne-prone skin . Why?
- Strengthens the physiological flora of the skin, which naturally limits the multiplication of Cutibacterium acnes bacteria.
- Helps reduce inflammation and redness without irritating.
- It does not clog pores and has non-comedogenic properties.
Mature skin
As we age, the epidermal barrier and skin microbiome become less stable. Inulin supports:
- the balance of the skin ecosystem , which becomes poorer with age,
- maintaining the appropriate pH , necessary for enzymatic renewal of the epidermis,
- smoothing and softness , which positively affects the perception of a younger appearance of the skin.
Inulin is a versatile ingredient, but above all, it's ideal for skin requiring soothing, regeneration, and restoration . It also works well as a preventative ingredient in the daily care of normal skin, as it protects the microbiome from disruptions resulting from stress, smog, detergents, and excess preservatives.
Summary - why is it worth using cosmetics with inulin?
Inulin isn't just a trendy cosmetic addition—it's an active ingredient with proven, multifaceted effects that support skin health, balance, and resilience . Unlike many synthetic or aggressive ingredients, it works gently yet effectively , supporting the skin's natural defenses.
Why is it worth it?
- Strengthens the skin microbiome – acts as a natural prebiotic, supporting beneficial bacteria and limiting the growth of pathogens.
- Rebuilds the protective barrier – supports the regeneration of damaged epidermis, soothes irritations, and reduces skin hyperreactivity.
- Moisturizes and smoothes – as a humectant, it binds water in the epidermis, improving its elasticity and softness.
- Supports all skin types – from dry and sensitive, through acne-prone, to mature and vascular.
- In line with trends – it perfectly fits the expectations of conscious consumers: clean beauty, microbiome-friendly, vegan, sustainable.
In cosmetics like Orientana Soothing Facial Cleansing Gel with Dates, Inulin, and Green Tea , the presence of inulin makes the formula not only effective but also gentle on delicate skin . This is an example of modern skincare, where cleansing is not only about removing impurities but also the first step towards healthy, balanced skin.
