Xanthan Gum
INCI · Xanthan Gum · also Xanthan, Corn sugar gum
Overview
A polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation of sugars, used to thicken water-based formulas and hold them together. It is what gives serums and gels their body and what keeps suspended particles from settling out in the bottle.
Who it's for
Nearly everyone, though not as a choice — it is a texture ingredient rather than an active, and it turns up in gels, serums, cleansers and creams at every price.
Cautions
It does nothing for skin on its own, so a product cannot be judged better or worse for containing it. Gels built heavily on gums are the ones most likely to pill or roll when layered under sunscreen or makeup, which is a texture complaint rather than a safety one.
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What does Xanthan Gum do in skincare?
A polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation of sugars, used to thicken water-based formulas and hold them together. It is what gives serums and gels their body and what keeps suspended particles from settling out in the bottle.
Is Xanthan Gum considered safe for skin?
It does nothing for skin on its own, so a product cannot be judged better or worse for containing it. Gels built heavily on gums are the ones most likely to pill or roll when layered under sunscreen or makeup, which is a texture complaint rather than a safety one.