Natto gum is a polysaccharide-rich biopolymer (polyglutamic acid) derived from fermented soybeans (natto) that is used in skincare as a moisturizing humectant and film-forming agent. It helps attract and retain water in the stratum corneum, improving skin hydration and texture.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact irritation (redness, mild stinging) | Rare | Generally well tolerated; mild transient irritation possible in sensitive skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Possible in individuals sensitive to soy-derived components. |
| Acneiform breakouts | Rare | Occasional reports in acne-prone users with occlusive film-forming formulations. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.