Aquaxyl™

Intelligent hydration and barrier protection: how Aquaxyl™ regulates water balance, strengthens the skin barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss.

Technology
ONE Library - Scientific Articles
ONE Library: Scientific Articles

Aquaxyl™ is the trade name of a hydrating complex developed by the raw-material supplier Seppic. Behind the name is a simple idea: rather than adding water to skin, the complex helps skin hold on to the water it has.

What It Is

The complex is built on sugar derivatives obtained from plant sources. On an ingredient list it appears under the INCI names xylitylglucoside, anhydroxylitol and xylitol.

How It Works

The approach targets the skin barrier and the way water moves through it. Rather than simply drawing moisture to the surface the way glycerin does, the complex supports the structures that keep water in the upper layers.

The difference from a plain humectant

Classic humectants attract water and hold it at the surface. If the surrounding air is dry, they can end up pulling moisture out of the skin itself. Complexes of this kind work more on the skin holding on to water, which makes them better suited to dry climates and the heating season.

What the Data Shows

The raw-material supplier publishes its own testing, according to which the complex reduces water loss through the skin and raises hydration at depth. Those results come from the supplier dossier rather than independent research, and it is fair to read them in that light.

What that means in practice

Supplier data is a useful guide when choosing a raw material, but the real effect depends on the concentration in the specific product and on the formula as a whole. The same complex in two different creams can perform noticeably differently.

Who It Suits

It suits every skin type, oily included, because it does not weigh skin down or leave a greasy film. The benefit is clearest on dry skin, when skin feels tight after washing, and in winter when heating drops indoor humidity.

How to Use It

You will find it in serums and creams for everyday use, morning and evening. It combines easily with almost anything: niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and actives such as retinol where extra hydration is usually welcome.

How to Spot It in a Formula

The trade name rarely appears on an ingredient list. Instead you will see xylitylglucoside, anhydroxylitol and xylitol, usually one after another. If the three run together, it is most likely this complex.

Position on the list

Ingredients are listed by quantity in descending order down to one percent. A complex sitting before the preservatives and fragrance is usually present at a working level. Last on the list, it is probably there for the label.

Hydration Versus Moisturising

The two words get used interchangeably but mean different things. Hydration is water in the skin; moisturising is keeping it there. Complete care needs both: something that brings in or holds water, and something richer on top that slows evaporation.

Which is why a hydrating serum left without a cream on top often disappoints in a dry climate. Not because it does not work, but because half the job is missing.

Apply to slightly damp skin and finish with a cream that seals on top. The effect on comfort shows quickly, usually within days, while a change in how skin looks takes a few weeks of regular use.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

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01What is Aquaxyl™ and how does it differ from a regular moisturizer?

Aquaxyl™ is a patented complex from Seppic (France), composed of xylitylglucoside, anhydroxylitol, and xylitol. Unlike regular moisturizers that simply add water, Aquaxyl™ regulates water flow within the skin by stimulating aquaporin-3 and strengthening glycosaminoglycans. According to the raw-material manufacturer, a markedly better hydration of the deeper layers is reported compared with +12% with a traditional moisturizer.

02Is it suitable for oily skin?

Yes, Aquaxyl™ is particularly suitable for oily skin as it does not add oils or heavy occlusive ingredients. Instead, it regulates water balance, helping oily skin maintain optimal hydration levels without additional shine. Proper hydration can actually reduce excess sebum production, which is often a compensatory reaction to dehydration.

03Can it be combined with other active ingredients?

Yes, Aquaxyl™ is exceptionally compatible with other active ingredients and even improves their efficacy. The optimized water balance supports the penetration of other active molecules such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and vitamins. Aquaxyl™ combines excellently with niacinamide, ceramides, and antioxidants.

04How quickly can results be seen?

The manufacturer reports measurable results from the first week, including a reduction in transepidermal water loss. The full effect on hydration, texture, and elasticity is observed after 2-4 weeks of regular use. The hydrating effect is maintained for up to 8 hours after application.

05Which Collagena Professional® products contain it?

Aquaxyl™ is included in the hydrating formulations of Collagena Professional®, where it is combined with other high-efficacy active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide for a synergistic hydrating effect. Browse the recommended products below on this page.