Pullulan

INCI: Pullulan | Function: Film Former, Tightening | Type: Polysaccharide

What Is Pullulan?

Pullulan is a natural polysaccharide produced from starch by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. In skincare, it forms an invisible, breathable film that provides an instant lifting and tightening effect. Also used as a binder, stabilizer, and delivery system for actives.

Key Skin Benefits

+ Instant skin-tightening and lifting effect
+ Forms invisible, breathable protective film
+ Excellent film-forming and binding properties
+ Natural, biodegradable polysaccharide
+ Enhances delivery of active ingredients

Pros

+ Natural fermentation-derived ingredient
+ Instant visible tightening (cosmetic effect)
+ Breathable film — does not occlude skin
+ Water-soluble and easy to formulate
+ Non-irritating and biodegradable

Cons

− Tightening effect is temporary (washes off)
− Can feel slightly tacky at high concentrations
− May interact with other polymers
− Limited long-term skin benefits beyond film-forming

Specifications

Property	Value
Usage Areas	Face, Eye, Body
Product Type	Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source	Biotech (fermentation)
Natural Level	Natural

Safety Ratings

Metric	Rating
Skin Sensitivity	0/5 (none)
Comedogenic Rating	0/5
EWG Score	1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

Region	Leave-on %	Rinse-off %	Status
EU (CosIng)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed — GRAS
Japan (MHLW)	No limit	No limit	Allowed
ASEAN	No limit	No limit	Allowed
China (NMPA)	No limit	No limit	Allowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product Type	Typical %
Lifting serum	1 - 5%
Sheet mask essence	0.5 - 2%
Eye treatment	1 - 3%

References

Singh RS et al. (2008) — Pullulan review. PMID: 18296406
Leathers TD (2003) — Pullulan biotechnological applications. PMID: 12545176
EWG Skin Deep — Score 1/10

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