Common Name(s): Kefiran,kefiran,kefir grain exopolysaccharide,prebiotic immunomodulating skin active
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides prebiotic selective fermentation for skin lactobacillus and bifidobacterium commensals, immunomodulating dectin-1 activation from the kefiran beta-glucan component, and hygroscopic moisture retention from the high-hydroxyl eps.
Why It's Used: Kefiran is the only eps produced by kefir's multi-organism grain community — a unique heteropolysaccharide that no single organism produces, providing the distinctive kefir immunomodulating and prebiotic benefits.
How It Works: Kefiran (ratio 1:1 glucose:galactose backbone): beta-1,4-galactose/glucose backbone with branching provides dectin-1 recognition similar to yeast beta-glucan; the galactosyl branches provide specific recognition by bifidobacterium galactosidase for prebiotic selectivity. kefiran film-forming: eps polyol groups form water-retention film on skin surface.
Typically Found In: Microbiome skin care,kefir beauty,prebiotic
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – skin microbiome support
Secondary Functions: Microbiome balance,prebiotic effect
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Fermentation-derived or plant-extracted.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; beneficial for sensitive skin.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Ceramides,niacinamide,soothing actives
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Kefiran vs standard beta-glucan: kefiran's galactose-glucose mixed composition provides dual prebiotic selectivity (both bifidobacterium and lactobacillus fermentation) and immunomodulation — the heteropolysaccharide provides more selective prebiotic activity than pure beta-glucan.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Cosing database,kefiran kefir exopolysaccharide prebiotic immunomodulating review