Dietary Fiber PHGG Boosts Skin Hydration and Elasticity

A new study has found that partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG), a plant-based prebiotic fiber, significantly improves skin hydration, elasticity, and trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), particularly during winter. The findings highlight the growing role of dietary fiber in skin health. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 70 healthy participants (9 males, 61 females, mean age 45.5 years). Participants were divided into two groups—one receiving 5g of PHGG (Sunfiber®) and the other a 5g placebo for 12 weeks. Researchers monitored key skin parameters at baseline, six weeks, and twelve weeks. After just six weeks, PHGG intake led to a significant reduction in TEWL and improved skin elasticity compared to the placebo. By the end of the trial, PHGG had enhanced skin hydration and overall skin health, with participants reporting high satisfaction. Importantly, no adverse effects were recorded, confirming PHGG’s safety and tolerability. Researchers believe its gut-skin benefits stem from its ability to promote gastrointestinal health, which in turn supports better skin moisture and resilience. With winter often exacerbating skin dryness, PHGG emerges as a natural, effective solution to support healthy, hydrated skin through dietary intervention.

Source: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11782779/