Xanthan Gum is used in cosmetics as a thickener and emulsion stabilizer. Xanthan Gum is an excellent, sugar-based, natural thickener for emulsions and cleansing systems. It readily swells water to enhance stability and viscosity, using small amounts. Because Xanthan Gum creates a gel with water, it offers a smooth glide to creams and lotions and improves their stability, even acting as an emulsifier, to some degree. When Xanthan Gum is used as a thickener, in face and body wash products, it will thicken and efficiently without jeopardizing the foam. Xanthan gum produces a large increase in the viscosity of a liquid with the addition of a minimal amount of gum. Generally, as little as 0.1% can be used in many applications.
INCI
Xanthan Gum
BENEFITS
– Non-gelling thickener (but binds water) and viscosity enhancer
– Provides volume and enhances foam in surfactants systems
– Stabilizes emulsions – Has lubricant properties
– Can act as suspending agent
– Pre-hydrated for easy mixing
– offers some skin hydration properties
– Xanthan Gum is used at very small amounts it offers an inexpensive solution to keeping your products natural while being very cost effective
HIGH PERFORMANCE INGREDIENT
Typical Ingredient
FORMULA LAYER
Functional – Thickener/Gum
USAGE RATE
Add to water phase
Topical use level: 0.1-2%
For best results start at 0.3% and increase in 0.1% increments to avoid an unpleasant slimy texture.
SOLUBILITY
Water
TYPE/CHARGE
Anionic
SCENT
None
APPEARANCE
Light Beige Free Flowing Powder
SKIN TYPES
All Skin Types
PRODUCTS
Face Care, Shower Products , Cream/Lotion, Body Care, Hair Care, Moisturiser, Gel
SUBSTITUTION
Guar gum, Acacia gum or hydroxyethylcellulose
Categories: Functional – Thickener/Gum