INCI: Maltodextrin - Also known as: Glucose Polymer, Starch Hydrolysate

QUICK FACTS

What is maltodextrin?

Maltodextrin is a plant-derived polysaccharide produced by the partial hydrolysis of starch - typically from corn, wheat, or potato sources. It consists of short chains of glucose units that are water-soluble, highly stable across a wide range of pH and temperature conditions, and well-documented in both food-grade and cosmetic formulation.

In skincare, maltodextrin is most often used as part of a probiotic delivery system, where it acts as a protective encapsulant for lyophilized bacterial cultures or ferment-derived actives. In the Hydra-Cream and Lipid-Cream, maltodextrin is formulated alongside Lactobacillus Ferment - a postbiotic-derived active - where it serves as the carrier matrix that protects the ferment's bioactive molecules and supports their release onto the skin's surface.

Maltodextrin also contributes to skin feel, imparting a smooth, velvety texture that supports the cushioned satin finish of the Hydra-Cream and the emollient radiant finish of the Lipid-Cream - without adding heaviness or residue.

What does it do for skin?

In the context of the Sweet Chemistry creams, maltodextrin's primary contribution is as a functional partner to Lactobacillus Ferment. The ferment delivers postbiotic signals - metabolites associated with beneficial bacteria - that research links to a more balanced skin microbiome environment, a more comfortable skin surface, and a more resilient-looking barrier. Maltodextrin stabilizes and protects these molecules during emulsification and product storage, helping to ensure they reach the skin in their intended state.

The skin's microbiome is increasingly researched as a potential regulator of barrier appearance and inflammatory response. When the microbial ecosystem is disrupted - by aggressive cleansing, antibiotic use, or environmental stress - barrier appearance may decline and sensitivity may increase. By supporting the delivery of postbiotic actives, maltodextrin plays a role in a broader microbiome-informed approach to skin appearance and comfort.

At the formulation level, maltodextrin's glucose polymer chains also contribute mild film-forming and water-binding character - adding a subtle, skin-smoothing effect that complements the broader humectant system of hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and beta-glucan already present in both creams.

FOUND IN

In 2 Formulas

Maltodextrin is specific to Sweet Chemistry's two water-based creams, where it works in tandem with Lactobacillus Ferment as part of the formulas' postbiotic delivery and microbiome-support approach.

Hydration - Dry to Normal

Elasticity Reinforcing Hydra-Cream Maltodextrin (with Lactobacillus Ferment) - 1.7 oz / 50 ml

The Hydra-Cream delivers 3% Matrikynes® peptides, a full ceramide barrier complex, and 2% THD ascorbate in a 54%-water emulsion. Maltodextrin supports the postbiotic system within this formula alongside 40% total active content.

Hydration - Dry to Dehydrated

Elasticity Reinforcing Lipid-Cream Maltodextrin (with Lactobacillus Ferment) - 1.7 oz / 50 ml

In the Lipid-Cream, maltodextrin partners with Lactobacillus Ferment alongside shea butter, sea buckthorn, jojoba, and a full peptide and ceramide complex - supporting microbiome balance within the richest formula in the Sweet Chemistry lineup.

WORKS TOGETHER WITH

Probiotic Ferment Lactobacillus Ferment

INCI: Lactobacillus Ferment.

A postbiotic active present alongside maltodextrin in both Sweet Chemistry creams, associated with microbiome-balancing metabolites and a more comfortable skin surface. Synergy Note: Maltodextrin is the delivery scaffold for Lactobacillus Ferment - the two ingredients are formulated as a system and are designed to function interdependently.

Barrier Lipid Complex Ceramide EOP, AP, NP + Phytosphingosine + Cholesterol

INCI: Ceramide EOP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol.

A 3% full-spectrum barrier lipid blend in both creams associated with barrier integrity and TEWL reduction. Synergy Note: A more balanced microbiome environment - supported by the Lactobacillus/maltodextrin system - is researched in connection with reduced surface inflammation, which may in turn support barrier lipid organization.

Polysaccharide Humectant Beta-Glucan

INCI: Beta-Glucan.

Present in both creams, beta-glucan is a high-molecular-weight oat-derived polysaccharide humectant researched in connection with surface hydration and a more comfortable skin feel. Synergy Note: Maltodextrin and beta-glucan are both glucose-based polysaccharides - together they contribute a layered, skin-compatible moisture-supporting environment that also provides a stable context for postbiotic delivery.

ECM Peptide Complex Matrikynes® Bone Peptides

INCI: Hydrolyzed Cow Bone Extract.

At 3% in both creams, this patent-pending concentrate of 315+ bioactive peptides is associated with improvements in the appearance of skin density and aging signs. Synergy Note: A more regulated, lower-inflammation skin environment - supported by the postbiotic system - may create a more favorable context for the dermal-targeting activity associated with Matrikynes® peptides.