Xanthan gum

Xanthan gum thickens and stabilises the water phase of cosmetic formulations. Water combined with up to 1 % of the powder produces a gel that holds its shape, does not run and helps keep an emulsion together. It is used in both home and professional production, as it handles a wide pH range, tolerates surfactants, electrolytes and alcohol, and can be worked cold. A thickener of natural origin from European production, suitable for formulations for the face, body, hands, hair and scalp, for all skin types. What it is suitable for Thickening aqueous formulations – turns a toner, hydrolat or aqueous solution of active ingredients into a serum or gel that can be dispensed and applied without running. Emulsion stabilisation – increases the viscosity of the water phase and slows the separation of oil droplets, so a cream or lotion is more resistant to phase separation. Rheology modifier – alters the texture behaviour: the gel holds its shape in the container and spreads across the skin on application. Particle carrier – in a thickened gel, exfoliant particles, flowers or pearls remain suspended instead of sinking to the bottom. Thickening surfactant products – tolerates anionic, amphoteric, cationic and non-ionic surfactants, making it suitable for use in shower gels, shampoos and cleansing gels. Use in formulation It is added to the water phase , where the powder first disperses and then swells. It does not dissolve instantly; viscosity builds gradually as the powder hydrates. The recommended usage level is 0.1 – 1.0 % : at the lower end the result is a fluid serum or stabilised