Product description

Inulin is a natural fructan polysaccharide obtained from chicory roots (Cichorium intybus) by gentle extraction in water followed by drying. In cosmetics, it acts as a prebiotic ingredient that helps support the balance of the skin microbiome, and at the same time works as a mild humectant and skin softener. In rinse-off formulations, it can reduce the irritancy of surfactant systems and improve the overall feel of the product.

Key benefits:

• Prebiotic support of the skin microbiome – helps maintain skin comfort and balance.
• Hydration and softening – binds water and improves skin smoothness without a sticky feel.
• Comfort in surfactant systems – contributes to better tolerance of shower gels and shampoos.
• Texturizing effect – slightly increases the viscosity of the aqueous phase and improves the spreadability of emulsions.

Suitable for products such as:

• Toners, facial and hair serums, hydrating essences
• Cream and gel emulsions, masks
• Shampoos, conditioners, shower gels (rinse-off products)
• Micellar waters and gentle cleansing products

Use in formulation:

• Solubility: well soluble in water (faster in warm/hot); insoluble in oils.
• Dosage: typically 0,1–3 % in leave-on products; in rinse-off formulations 0,5–5 % depending on the desired effect.
• Phase of incorporation: into the water phase – sprinkle directly into water under stirring (cold process) or dissolve in the water phase while heating, then emulsify/cool down.
• Temperature: warm water is suitable for rapid dispersion; avoid prolonged heating at very low pH.

Raw material safety rating according to EWG: 1 (low risk)

Inulin is a versatile, natural and well-tolerated raw material that provides hydrating comfort, improved sensorial feel and support of the skin microbiome across a wide range of cosmetic formulations.

FAQ

Is inulin suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, it is a gentle raw material with good tolerability; at low percentages it is also suitable for formulations intended for sensitive skin.

Does inulin thicken a gel or an emulsion?
It has rather a light texturizing effect – it slightly increases viscosity and improves skin feel, but it is not a classic gelling polysaccharide like xanthan.

Can I combine it with glycerin and betaine?
Yes, it forms very pleasant hydrating combinations and supports comfort in cleansing/rinse-off products.

At which stage of manufacturing is it best to add it?
Most often into the water phase – either directly in cold process, or with slight heating for faster dissolution.

More detailed information on the product quality can be found in the certificate of analysis, which we update with each new batch.

All supplied raw materials are of cosmetic grade, not suitable for internal use.

Use appropriate protective equipment during handling.

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