
Formulator’s Queries, We Answered
1. What is Xylitol Crystals PCS 300?
Xylitol is a naturally-derived sugar alcohol (polyol), presented as white crystalline powder. The "PCS 300" grade refers to ~300 µm particle size, optimized for applications in personal care and oral formulations.
2. What are the CAS Number and INCI Name of Xylitol?
CAS Number: 87‑99‑0
INCI Name: Xylitol
3. What benefits does PCS 300 Xylitol offer in personal care?
Humectant & Skin Conditioning: Retains moisture, improving hydration in lotions, creams, lip balms
Cooling Sensation: Dissolves endothermically in water, creating a pleasant cooling feel in mouth-related products like toothpaste and lip balms
Oral Health Support: Non-cariogenic; it reduces plaque and supports dental hygiene in toothpastes, mouthwashes, gums
Low Glycemic Index: Won't spike blood sugar—though less relevant for topicals, it’s suitable for ingestible oral-care formats
4. In which personal care products is PCS 300 Xylitol commonly used?
Oral Care: Toothpastes (especially chewable/children’s), mouthwashes, gums, and breath mints
Skin Care: Lotions, creams, serums as a hydrating and skin conditioning additive
Hair Care: Used in shampoos and conditioners to boost moisture retention and reduce static
5. Is Xylitol safe for use in personal care products?
Yes. Xylitol is approved for both food and cosmetic use. It’s considered nontoxic, non-irritating, and non-sensitizing for topical applications. However, due to its laxative effect in high oral intake, concentration levels must align with regulatory guidelines.
6. Can Xylitol cause skin or oral irritation?
Generally, Xylitol is gentle and well-tolerated. Those with sensitive skin or mucosa should still perform a patch or use test to ensure compatibility. It is non-acidogenic and minimally irritating in oral-care formats.
7. Is Xylitol environmentally friendly?
Xylitol is biodegradable and derived from plant sources (birch, corn cobs), which lends it environmental advantage over synthetic polymers. While responsible sourcing and manufacturing remain important, it’s regarded as eco-friendly.
8. Are there alternatives to Xylitol in formulations?
Yes. Depending on function:
Humectants: Glycerin, sorbitol, propylene glycol.
Cooling agents: Menthol, sugar alcohols like erythr itol.
Oral-care actives: Erythritol, sorbitol, or fluoride-based compounds.
9. What typical usage levels are recommended?
In personal care, Xylitol is commonly used at 1–10 %, depending on product type—classes like toothpaste and mouthwash often fall in mid-ranges (~5 %), while skin serums may use lower amounts.
10. How should PCS 300 Xylitol be stored and handled?
Store in a cool, dry place, in airtight containers to prevent moisture uptake (it’s mildly hygroscopic). Ensure manufacturing environments are controlled to maintain grade consistency.