Malt Extract

Not rated

New ingredients

Malt Extract at a glance

  • Type of sugar resulting from beer production
  • Contains phenols that can help prevent oxidative stress
  • Considered an environmentally friendly ingredient

Malt Extract description

Malt extract is a type of sugar produced when grains (usually barley) are partially germinated in water, and then the germination process is stopped. This process can be done in a lab but is also the result of fermentation methods used in producing beer. While malt isn’t a product widely used in cosmetics just yet, its antioxidant potential puts it on a list of ingredients to watch. Studies have found it contains phenols that can help prevent oxidative stress on skin, giving it value as an anti-aging ingredient as well as skin-soothing properties. Malt extract is also considered an environmentally friendly ingredient since it is a byproduct of beer production so can be “upcycled” for use in skin care.

Malt Extract references

  • SpecialChem, Accessed February 2023, Website
  • Cosmetics, September 2021, ePublication
  • Nutrients, June 2021, pages 1–22
  • Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy, September 2020, ePublication

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.