Succinoglycan

TL;DR. This ingredient is primarily a rheology modifier, used to thicken water-based formulas, improve suspension, and stabilize emulsions or gels. It can also add a light film-forming, skin-feel benefit.

What does Succinoglycan do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is primarily a rheology modifier, used to thicken water-based formulas, improve suspension, and stabilize emulsions or gels. It can also add a light film-forming, skin-feel benefit.

Is Succinoglycan clean?

From a clean beauty perspective, this ingredient is generally well-tolerated and has little restricted-list friction. Sensitization concerns are low, with the main quality focus being good manufacturing control of fermentation residues and preservatives used in the raw material blend.

Is Succinoglycan sustainable?

This material is made by microbial fermentation, typically from sugar-based feedstocks, rather than direct petrochemical synthesis. As a polysaccharide, it is expected to be biodegradable and has low persistence concerns in rinse-off or leave-on use.

Is Succinoglycan COSMOS-approved?

It is permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic when produced through compliant fermentation processes and supplied with approved processing aids or preservatives. It aligns well with Green Chemistry principles because it uses bio-based feedstocks, aqueous processing, and a biodegradable polymer structure.

How does Succinoglycan work chemically?

The molecule is a high-molecular-weight, anionic heteropolysaccharide with sugar-based repeating units and carboxylated side groups, giving strong water binding and shear-thinning viscosity. It is typically used around 0.05% to 1.0%, hydrates in water, and is valued for stability across a broad pH range and in formulas containing salts or surfactants.

Last updated 2026-05-13