Glucosylglycerol

Glucosylglycerol (CAS 22160-26-5), also known as glycosylglycerol or glyceryl glucoside, is a naturally occurring glycoside composed of glucose and glycerol. It is found in cyanobacteria and certain halophytic plants as an osmoprotectant. Commercial grades are marketed under trade names including Glycoin, Skycore AGG, and Extremys GG.

In personal care formulations, glucosylglycerol functions as a humectant by binding water within the stratum corneum, supporting skin hydration at low use levels. In food and nutraceutical applications, it acts as a stabilizing agent, protecting proteins and bioactive compounds against thermal and oxidative degradation through preferential exclusion mechanisms.

Glucosylglycerol is supplied as a solid and is available in cosmetic and food-grade specifications. It falls under REACH registration requirements for EU market supply. Procurement teams should confirm grade suitability against intended application, as purity thresholds differ between personal care and food or pharmaceutical end uses.