Xylitol

INCI: Xylitol

Xylitol is commonly used as a sweetener in food, and in cosmetics it acts as a moisturising ingredient –
a humectant. It is also found in toothpastes, where it acts as a sweetener and helps with removing harmful bacteria from the surface of teeth.

Research* shows that xylitol helps break down biofilms of harmful bacteria, both on the surface of teeth and on the surface of the skin. Certain skin conditions, such as eczema and dermatitis, can among other things be a result of an imbalance in the skin microflora. Xylitol helps prevent the growth of bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus, as well as fungi of the genus Malassezia. It can therefore be added to creams, where it will also help with skin moisturisation, and it can also be added to anti-dandruff shampoos.

Usage: Soluble in water, can be heated. Toothpastes (up to 25%), creams (up to 5%), anti-dandruff shampoos
(up to 5%).

* Masako, K., Hideyuki, I., Shigeyuki, O., & Zenro, I. (2005). A novel method to control the balance of skin microflora: Part 1. Attack on biofilm of Staphylococcus aureus without antibiotics. Journal of
dermatological science, 38(3), 197-205.

RECIPE: Homemade toothpaste and mouthwash with xylitol

A recipe for a homemade toothpaste and mouthwash that you can easily prepare with just a few natural ingredients. You will surely be surprised by the results, and on top of that these are completely natural ingredients, free of harmful chemicals.

Xylitol is a natural sweetener that offers great benefits for teeth and gums. Unlike sugar, it does not break down and does not attract bacteria that cause tooth decay. Xylitol helps balance the pH in the mouth, prevents bacteria from sticking to teeth and protects teeth from decay.
Ingredients for toothpaste:
• 4 tablespoons of baking soda
• 5 tablespoons of coconut oil
• 15 drops of peppermint essential oil
• 1-2 teaspoons of xylitol 

Preparation of toothpaste

Pour all ingredients into a bowl and mix well with a small spoon until all the ingredients are well combined. Store the mixture in suitable packaging, e.g. a tube, a plastic or glass container. Apply the homemade toothpaste to your toothbrush and you are ready to use it. Store it in the bathroom cabinet and make sure it does not come into contact with water.

Note: The toothpaste is not completely smooth as we are usually accustomed to. You will notice a few lumps, but you will get used to it over time.

Ingredients for mouthwash:
• 1 cup of distilled water
• 2-4 teaspoons of xylitol (promotional price 1 EUR*)
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 4 drops of tea tree essential oil
• 4 drops of peppermint essential oil

Preparation of mouthwash:

Pour all ingredients into a suitable glass bottle and shake vigorously. Store the mouthwash in the bathroom cabinet and shake well before each use. Use by rinsing your mouth with approximately 10ml of mouthwash for 60 seconds, then spit it out. 

Enjoy natural oral hygiene :)