• Plant-derived, biodegradable thickening agent
• Excellent stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions
• Compatible with a wide range of pH and ingredients
• Enhances texture and spreadability
• Safe and non-irritating for sensitive skin

Xanthan Gum – Natural Cosmetic Thickener & Stabilizer

Xanthan Gum is a powerful natural polysaccharide used to thicken and stabilize cosmetic formulations. Sourced from the fermentation of plant-based sugars, it is a go-to ingredient for creating smooth and stable gels, creams, and lotions. Its ability to hold ingredients in suspension makes it valuable for products like scrubs and serums. Xanthan Gum is compatible with most surfactants and emulsifiers and remains stable across a broad pH range, making it a versatile tool for DIY and professional formulators alike.

INCI Name: Xanthan Gum

CAS Number: 11138-66-2

Solubility: Water-soluble

Add Phase: Disperse in water phase (sprinkle gradually while mixing)

pH Stability: 4.0 – 10.0

Processing Temperature: Below 60°C (avoid clumping)

Appearance: Fine white to off-white powder

Odor: Neutral to slight

Molecular Formula: C35H49O29

Molecular Weight: ~933 g/mol

Flash Point: Not applicable

Density: ~1.5 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Polysaccharide

Functional Groups: Hydroxyl, Carboxyl

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Thickener, Stabilizer, Suspending Agent

• Usage Rate: 0.2–1.5% depending on desired viscosity
• Recommended Additions: Humectants, herbal extracts, emulsifiers
• Storage: Keep in a dry, sealed container away from moisture

To avoid clumping, slowly sprinkle Xanthan Gum into water while mixing with a high-shear blender or hand mixer. Blend with glycerin before adding to water for easier dispersion!

✔️ Sensitive

✔️ Oily

✔️ Normal

✔️ Dry

✔️ Acne-Prone

1. DIY Aloe Gel:

95% Distilled Water

2% Xanthan Gum

2% Aloe Vera Extract

0.5% Preservative

0.5% Fragrance Oil (optional)

2. Creamy Moisturizer Base:

70% Water

3% Xanthan Gum

5% Emulsifying Wax

10% Oil Phase

10% Botanical Extracts and Actives

1% Preservative

1% Fragrance

3. Natural Hair Serum:

90% Water

0.8% Xanthan Gum

5% Panthenol

3% Polyquaternium-10

1% Preservative

0.2% Essential Oil Blend

Serums⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩

Creams & Lotions⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩

Toners⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩

Face Masks⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩

Cleansers⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Good🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜

Hair Masks⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜

Deodorants⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜

Eye Creams⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩

Shampoos⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜

Soaps⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜

Conditioners⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜

Lip Balms☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜

Body Butters⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜

Ointments⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Reasonable🟨🟨🟨⬜⬜

Q1: Can Xanthan Gum be used in both hot and cold processes?

Yes, but it is best hydrated in cold or room temperature water before heating.

Q2: Will it work in oil-based formulas?

No, Xanthan Gum is water-soluble and not suitable for anhydrous (oil-only) formulas.

Q3: Does it require neutralization?

No, it doesn’t require a neutralizer like carbomer does.