Hydrolyzed Malt Extract is a derivative of malted barley broken down into smaller peptides and sugars, used in skincare primarily as a moisturizing, skin-conditioning, and film-forming agent. It can help temporarily smooth and hydrate the skin surface.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Contact irritation (mild redness or stinging) | Rare | Generally well tolerated; irritation is uncommon and usually mild. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | Possible in individuals sensitized to barley or grain-derived proteins. |
Reaction in gluten-sensitive individuals applied topically | Very rare | Barley-derived; theoretical concern for highly sensitive individuals, though topical absorption of gluten is minimal. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.