Xanthan Gum
Bacterial polysaccharide used as a thickener and stabilizer. Gives a gel-like texture to aqueous formulas. Inert to the skin.
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
- Oily, Dry, Sensitive, Combination, Normal
About this ingredient
Xanthan Gum is a polysaccharide of bacterial origin. Made by fermentation of glucose and sucrose by Xanthomonas campestris. In food it is a thickener (E415), in cosmetics a thickener and stabiliser. Mechanism. Forms pseudoplastic gels – thick at low load, fluid under shear (rubbing) for easy spread. Ideal for gels, serums, shampoos where stable texture is needed. Holds pigment and particle suspensions (important for foundations and mineral-filter sunscreens). Where applied. In virtually any cosmetic with a gel or cream texture – concentrations 0.1-2%. In Spain – massively in Caudalie, Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Avène, ISDIN. Also in shaving gels, shampoos, toothpaste. Evidence base. Functional ingredient. CIR confirmed safety across the full concentration range in 2008. Safety. Inert to the skin. Non-sensitising, non-comedogenic. Safe in food and cosmetics for over 50 years. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. Usable without restrictions. Also safe in the diet of pregnant women.
Frequently asked questions
Is Xanthan Gum safe during pregnancy?
Xanthan Gum is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Xanthan Gum for?
Xanthan Gum suits: oily, dry, sensitive, combination, normal.
What is Xanthan Gum and what does it do in cosmetics?
Bacterial polysaccharide used as a thickener and stabilizer.
What's the INCI name for Xanthan Gum?
The INCI name is Xanthan Gum.
See Xanthan Gum 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
Zea Mays Starch, Zinc Coceth Sulfate, Zinc Ricinoleate, Zinc Stearate, CI 42090 (Blue 1), Hydroxypropylcellulose, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Sodium Carbomer
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