Question 1

What does Gellan Gum. [+/- May Contain: Mica do in a cosmetic formula?

Accepted Answer

This ingredient is primarily a water-phase thickener, gelling agent, and suspension stabilizer. It helps keep pigments, exfoliants, or insoluble particles evenly distributed while giving formulas a smooth, structured texture.

Question 2

Is Gellan Gum. [+/- May Contain: Mica clean?

Accepted Answer

From a clean-beauty perspective, this ingredient is generally well tolerated, non-sensitizing, and not a common restricted-list concern. It is used at low levels and has no major controversy around irritation, allergen labeling, or residue issues in finished products.

Question 3

Is Gellan Gum. [+/- May Contain: Mica sustainable?

Accepted Answer

This ingredient is made by microbial fermentation rather than direct petroleum extraction, which gives it a favorable sourcing profile. It is biodegradable and used in small amounts, with a relatively light environmental footprint compared with many synthetic film-formers or rheology modifiers.

Question 4

Is Gellan Gum. [+/- May Contain: Mica COSMOS-approved?

Accepted Answer

It is permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic standards when produced and processed according to the standard’s requirements. It aligns well with Green Chemistry because it is fermentation-derived, effective at low use levels, water-compatible, and biodegradable.

Question 5

How does Gellan Gum. [+/- May Contain: Mica work chemically?

Accepted Answer

The molecule is a high-molecular-weight anionic heteropolysaccharide with repeating sugar units that include glucose, glucuronic acid, and rhamnose, so salts and divalent cations can strongly influence viscosity and gel strength. Typical use is about 0.05% to 0.5% for suspension or light gels, usually hydrated in water with heat and shear, then structured as the system cools or as ions are introduced.