Xanthan Gum

INCI: Xanthan Gum | Function: Thickener, Stabilizer | Type: Polysaccharide gum

What Is Xanthan Gum?

Xanthan Gum is a natural polysaccharide produced by fermentation of sugar by Xanthomonas campestris bacteria. It is the most widely used thickener and stabilizer in cosmetics, providing smooth texture, suspending particles, and preventing emulsion separation.

Key Skin Benefits

Pros

Cons

Specifications

PropertyValue
Usage AreasFace, Eye, Body, Hair
Product TypeLeave-On, Rinse-Off
SourcePlant (fermentation)
Natural LevelNatural

Safety Ratings

MetricRating
Skin Sensitivity0/5 (none)
Comedogenic Rating0/5
EWG Score1/10

Regional Regulatory Limits

RegionLeave-on %Rinse-off %Status
EU (CosIng)No limitNo limitAllowed
US (CIR/FDA)No limitNo limitAllowed — CIR safe, GRAS
Japan (MHLW)No limitNo limitAllowed
ASEANNo limitNo limitAllowed
China (NMPA)No limitNo limitAllowed

Typical Usage % by Product Type

Product TypeTypical %
Gel / Serum0.1 - 0.5%
Cream / Lotion0.1 - 0.3%
Toothpaste0.5 - 1%

References

  1. CIR (2016) — Xanthan Gum safety. PMID: 27633856
  2. FDA — GRAS 21CFR172.695
  3. EWG Skin Deep — Score 1/10
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