Dextrin
Corn or potato polysaccharide. In cosmetics: neutral bulking agent, absorbent, foam stabilizer.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Dextrin is a low-molecular-weight polysaccharide obtained by partial hydrolysis of starch (corn, potato, tapioca). Known in the food industry as a thickener; in cosmetics – a neutral filler and stabilizer. Mechanism. Absorbs oil and excess sebum, takes up moisture, gives the formula bulk. Forms a thin film with a mattifying effect on skin. In dry formulas (powders, powder masks) it works as a filler and stabilizer. In liquids – as a thickener and emulsifier. Where applied. Mineral powders, loose foundations, dry shampoos, powder masks, cleansing gels, antiperspirants. In Spain – Mercadona Deliplus in mass-market powders, niche artisan soaps, Klorane hair products (dry shampoos). Evidence base. A functional component with many years of use. Absorbent properties confirmed in standard tests. No standalone active skin pharmacology. Safety. CIR confirmed dextrin safety in cosmetic use. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. In patients with celiac disease a reaction is theoretically possible to wheat dextrin (contains traces of gluten); to corn and potato – no. Pregnancy and lactation – safe without restrictions. Best suited to: any skin type, especially oily and combination (thanks to absorbent properties). Almost a standard in color cosmetics.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dextrin safe during pregnancy?
Dextrin is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Dextrin for?
Dextrin suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
What is Dextrin and what does it do in cosmetics?
Corn or potato polysaccharide.
What's the INCI name for Dextrin?
The INCI name is Dextrin.
See Dextrin in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Dextrin Myristate, Dextrin Palmitate, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate, Diatomaceous Earth, Magnesium Laureth-8 Sulfate, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquiisostearate, Sodium Olivate, Arachidyl Glycoside
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