




Xanthan Gum Powder
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Quick specs
Use 0.2–1%
Thickener & stabiliser
Cold process capable
INGREDIENT OVERVIEW
Xanthan Gum Powder
Xanthan Gum is a high-performance polysaccharide thickener used in cosmetic formulations to build viscosity, improve stability, and suspend insoluble materials.
It is widely used across gels, serums, cleansers, lotions, and emulsions where consistent texture and reliable structure are required.
Our Xanthan Gum is supplied as a cosmetic-grade white powder with verified viscosity of 520 mPa·s in a 1% aqueous solution, selected for stable hydration behaviour, low moisture content, and dependable formulation performance.
When properly dispersed, it forms smooth, stable water-based systems and can assist in improving emulsion stability.
QUALITY & SOURCING
- High viscosity performance (520 mPa·s at 1%)
- Extremely low loss on drying (0.13%) for stability
- Low ash content (0.15%) indicating clean processing
- Clean microbial profile (TPC ≤1000 cfu/g, yeast/mould ≤100 cfu/g)
- Heavy metals compliant (≤1 ppm limits)
- USP standard compliant
KEY SPECIFICATIONS
- Ingredient: Xanthan Gum
- INCI: Xanthan Gum
- CAS: 11138-66-2
- Solubility: Water dispersible
- Typical use level:
- Leave-on: 0.1–0.5%
- Rinse-off: 0.2–0.5%
- Used at low levels due to high efficiency
- Starter: 0.2–0.3% for most cosmetic formulations
FORMULATION NOTES
Processing notes
- Pre-disperse in glycerin or propanediol to prevent clumping, then add to water phase with mixing.
Compatibility notes
- Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients
- Works with surfactants and emulsions
- Suitable for a wide range of systems
pH notes
Stable across a wide pH range.
Formulation examples
Gel system
- Xanthan gum: 0.2–0.4%
- Humectants: 3–5%
- Water phase to 100%
Cleanser system
- Xanthan gum: 0.2–0.3%
- Surfactants
- Humectants
Troubleshooting
- Clumping → pre-disperse in glycerin
- Stringy texture → reduce level or blend with other gums
- Too thick → reduce percentage
- Too thin → increase slightly or combine with carbomer
COMPARISON & ALTERNATIVES
- Carbomer → clearer gels, higher viscosity control
- Sclerotium gum → smoother, more elegant feel
- HEC → lighter thickening
SENSORY PROFILE
Xanthan gum creates a slightly gel-like, cushioned texture. At higher levels it may introduce drag or stringiness. Sensory outcome is formulation-dependent; bench testing is recommended.
STORAGE & HANDLING
- Store in a cool, dry place, protected from heat, moisture, and direct light.
- Keep container tightly sealed when not in use.
- Shelf life: 2 years when properly stored
PRODUCT SAFETY
- Low irritation potential when used within recommended levels.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Avoid inhalation of dust. Use appropriate PPE during handling and formulation.
- Refer to Safety Data Sheet (SDS) contained within documents tab.
DOCUMENTATION
- Cosmetic grade
- Viscosity: 520 mPa·s (1% solution)
- Loss on drying: 0.13%
- Ash: 0.15%
- Heavy metals: compliant
- Microbial limits: compliant
- COA and SDS available
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