DESCRIPTION: AQP3-Moist (Glyceryl Glucoside) is a next‑generation hydration molecule that boosts the skin’s natural water channels, delivering deep, long‑lasting moisture and a visibly stronger barrier. AQP3-Moist is naturally found in resilient microorganisms that thrive in extreme environments. These organisms use GG to retain moisture and protect their cells — a mechanism now harnessed for advanced skincare. AQP3-Moist is a scientifically validated hydration‑boosting active that works by upregulating Aquaporin‑3, enhancing epidermal water transport, and improving barrier integrity. Clinical and in‑vitro data consistently demonstrate its ability to increase AQP3 expression, reduce TEWL, and improve skin hydration, stimulation of procollagen I in aged cells, boost of anti-oxidative power (SOD1) and ATP synthesis, increase of skin elasticity, increase of skin smoothness, increase of skin thickness, making it a high‑value ingredient for modern dermocosmetic formulations.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Aquaporin‑3 Activation: AQP3-Moist significantly increases AQP3 mRNA and protein expression in human keratinocytes
- Helps activate the skin’s natural hydration channels (AQP3). AQP3 is a membrane channel responsible for transporting water and glycerol across keratinocyte membranes. It plays a central role in: Epidermal hydration, Barrier recovery and Elasticity and resilience
- Supports optimal water and glycerol flow within the skin (Improved glycerol distribution)
- Promotes balanced hydration from within. (Enhanced intracellular water transport, which translates to better hydration of viable epidermal layers)
Barrier Optimization: Topical AQP3-Moist reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by improving lipid organization and supporting corneocyte cohesion.
- Helps reinforce the lipid matrix
- Supports improved moisture retention
- Contributes to smoother, more resilient skin
Bio‑Inspired Hydration Technology:
- Inspired by extremophile organisms that survive in harsh environments
- Mimics nature’s own moisture‑preservation strategies
- Delivers smart, targeted hydration
Penetration and Bioavailability
- Human suction‑blister studies demonstrate that GG penetrates intact skin, reaching measurable concentrations in the epidermis (≈683 ng/mL)
Anti‑Inflammatory Potential
- Technical literature suggests AQP3-Moist may modulate inflammatory pathways and protect against environmental stressors.
BENEFITS
- Boosts skin hydration for up to 24 hours
- Enhances the skin’s natural moisture distribution
- Helps skin stay soft, smooth, and supple
- Supports a stronger, healthier skin barrier
- Helps reduce moisture loss
- Improves skin comfort and reduces dryness sensations
- Promotes a fresher, more energized complexion
- Helps skin look plumper and more luminous
- Supports healthy cell function for improved texture
- Gentle, non‑irritating, and suitable for daily use
- Ideal for compromised or stressed skin
- Helps soothe dryness‑related discomfort
APPLICATIONS: In toners, gels, cream, lotions, masks, for Hydrating serums, Barrier‑repair creams, Sensitive‑skin moisturizers, Post‑procedure recovery products, Anti‑aging hydration boosters, Daily moisturizers for dry or combination skin and dermocosmetic formulations.
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
| INCI | Glyceryl Glucoside (and) Aqua (and) Glycerin |
| Chemical Class | Glyceryl Glycoside (α‑D‑glucopyranosyl‑α-(1→2)-glycerol) |
| Use rate | 1.0 – 5.0% |
| Solubility | Water |
| pH Stability | 3.0 – 11.0 |
| Temperature Tolerance | Avoid temperatures above 80°C |
| Assay | 50% |
| Appearance | Colourless to light yellow transparent viscous liquid |


This is a cosmetic raw material and is meant for external use only in cosmetic formulations. As with all of our materials, it should not be taken internally. Treasure Actives is not responsible for product compatibility. We advise everyone to test ingredients for performance, compatibility, and safety prior to committing to larger quantities. Keep all products out of reach of children. For more information, please see our terms and conditions page.
