Xanthan Gun ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is primarily a rheology modifier and stabilizer, used to thicken water-based formulas and help keep emulsions, suspensions, and gels uniform.
What does Xanthan Gun do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is primarily a rheology modifier and stabilizer, used to thicken water-based formulas and help keep emulsions, suspensions, and gels uniform.
Is Xanthan Gun clean?
It is generally well tolerated, non-sensitizing for most users, and has little clean-beauty friction. Clean standards typically view it as a low-concern texture and stability aid when used at normal cosmetic levels.
Is Xanthan Gun sustainable?
This material is made by microbial fermentation of carbohydrate feedstocks, often from corn, wheat, or soy-derived sugars. It is readily biodegradable and does not raise major persistence or bioaccumulation concerns.
Is Xanthan Gun COSMOS-approved?
It is permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic when produced and processed according to the standard. Its fermentation-based origin, biodegradability, and low use levels align well with Green Chemistry principles.
How does Xanthan Gun work chemically?
The molecule is a high-molecular-weight anionic polysaccharide that hydrates in water to build viscosity and create shear-thinning flow. Typical use levels are about 0.1% to 1.0%, with broad stability across roughly pH 3 to 12 and good compatibility with many salts, surfactants, and emulsions.
Last updated 2026-09-06