
General Description:
Xanthan Gum is a polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of sugars by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. It is a natural, soluble fiber that forms a gel-like substance when mixed with liquids. Xanthan Gum is widely used in various industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, due to its thickening, stabilizing, and emulsifying properties.
Uses in the Cosmetic Industry:
Xanthan Gum serves several purposes in cosmetics:
- Thickening Agent: It is used to increase the viscosity and thickness of cosmetic formulations. Xanthan Gum helps to stabilize emulsions and suspensions, ensuring uniformity and consistency in products like lotions, creams, and gels.
- Stabilizer: Xanthan Gum helps prevent ingredients from separating in formulations, enhancing the shelf-life and overall stability of cosmetic products.
- Emulsifier: It aids in the formation and stabilization of emulsions, allowing water-based and oil-based ingredients to blend together smoothly.
- Texture Modifier: Xanthan Gum improves the texture and feel of cosmetic products, imparting a smooth and creamy texture to creams and lotions.
- Binding Agent: In toothpaste and hair care products, Xanthan Gum acts as a binder, helping to hold ingredients together and improve product performance.
Potential Hazard Considerations:
Xanthan Gum is generally considered safe for topical use in cosmetics. However, some considerations include:
- Skin Sensitivity: While rare, some individuals may experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions to Xanthan Gum. It is recommended to perform patch tests before using new cosmetic products containing this ingredient.
- Eye Irritation: Direct contact with the eyes should be avoided to prevent irritation.
- Inhalation: Inhalation of Xanthan Gum powder can potentially cause respiratory irritation. Proper handling and use in cosmetic manufacturing facilities are necessary to minimize exposure.
- Regulatory Compliance: Cosmetic-grade Xanthan Gum must comply with regulatory standards set by authorities such as the FDA in the United States and the European Commission. These regulations ensure that Xanthan Gum used in cosmetics meets safety and purity standards.
CAS Number: 11138-66-2
INCI: Xanthan Gum
Composition: Xanthan Gum is composed of repeating units of glucose, mannose, and glucuronic acid. It is produced through fermentation using carbohydrates as the primary substrate for bacterial growth. The resulting polysaccharide is purified and dried to obtain the final xanthan gum powder.
Purity Grade: No purity grade applicable
Appearance: Xanthan Gum typically occurs as a fine, off-white to cream-colored powder.
Solubility: Xanthan Gum is soluble in water and forms viscous solutions at low concentrations. It is also soluble in glycerin and other polyols. However, it may form lumps or clumps if added directly to water, requiring gradual dispersion and agitation to achieve uniform hydration.
Preservation: Xanthan Gum is stable under normal storage conditions. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight to prevent clumping and degradation. Properly stored xanthan gum has a long shelf life.
Storage: Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature           Â
Raw Material Source : The raw materials for Xanthan Gum production primarily include carbohydrates such as corn starch, soy, wheat, or sugar cane. These carbohydrates serve as substrates for bacterial fermentation by Xanthomonas campestris. The fermentation process yields xanthan gum, which is then purified to remove impurities.
Manufacture: Xanthan Gum is produced through a fermentation process using the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. Carbohydrates are used as the primary substrate for bacterial growth, and the fermentation process results in the synthesis of xanthan gum. The produced xanthan gum is then purified through precipitation and drying steps to obtain the final powdered form.
Animal Testing: Not animal tested                    Â
GMO: GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components)
Vegan: Does not contain animal-derived components
Proposition: XANTHAN GUM complies with relevant regulations and guidelines
Warning: Avoid contact with eyes. In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water. Use appropriate protective equipment when handling. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Xanthan Gum?
Xanthan Gum is a high molecular‑weight, anionic polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of glucose or sucrose by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. It appears as an off‑white, water‑soluble powder used to thicken, stabilize, and control viscosity in formulations.
2. What are the CAS Number and INCI Name of Xanthan Gum?
CAS Number: 11138‑66‑2
INCI Name: Xanthan Gum
3. What benefits does Xanthan Gum offer in personal care products?
Thickening & Viscosity Control: Delivers high viscosity even at low concentrations (~0.1–1%) and exhibits shear‑thinning behavior for smooth application
Emulsion Stabilization: Prevents ingredient separation in oil‑in‑water systems over various pH and temperature ranges
Moisture Retention & Film Formation: Forms a film that helps lock in hydration
Texture Enhancer: Imparts silky, uniform feel to gels, creams, shampoos, and masks
4. In which personal care products is Xanthan Gum commonly used?
Skincare: Creams, lotions, serums, face masks
Haircare: Shampoos, conditioners, gels
Cleansers & Gels: Body washes, shower gels, toothpaste formulations
5. Is Xanthan Gum safe for use in personal care products?
Yes. It's non‑toxic, non‑irritating, and considered non‑comedogenic. Approved by FDA, EFSA (as E415), and CIR, with widespread use across food and cosmetics. Only rare allergenic reactions may occur from pollen‑derived residues.
6. Can Xanthan Gum cause skin irritation?
Generally, no. It's tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and acne‑prone skin. However, those with severe corn, wheat, soy, or dairy allergies should verify the source due to potential residue.
7. Is Xanthan Gum environmentally friendly?
Yes. It’s plant‑based, biodegradable, and renewable. Sourced via fermentation and widely accepted in natural/certified products.
8. What are alternatives to Xanthan Gum?
Natural gums: Guar gum, acacia gum
Cellulosic thickeners: Hydroxyethyl cellulose, methylcellulose
9. What typical usage levels are recommended?
Use between 0.1–1%, commonly 0.1–0.5% in emulsions and gels.
10. How should Xanthan Gum be stored and handled?
Keep in a cool, dry place, in airtight containers. Avoid inhalation of the fine powder during handling.