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Researched by Helena DeMaria-Williams

Formula IngredientThickener

Gellan Gum

INCI: Gellan Gum

Gellan gum is a polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation of Sphingomonas elodea. In cosmetics it functions as a film-forming agent and viscosity controller, creating stable gel textures and improving the spreadability of formulations. It is also widely used in food as a gelling agent (E418).

Category

Thickener

Irritation Risk

Low

Skin Types

all skin types

What does this do in a formula?

gel formation, viscosity control, film forming, texture stabilisation, improved spreadability

Is Gellan Gum safe? Key considerations

Can Gellan Gum cause irritation?

Low Risk

Well tolerated. Non-irritating at cosmetic concentrations. Also approved as a food additive (E418). No EU CosIng Annex restrictions.

Does Gellan Gum increase sun sensitivity?

No Risk

Does not increase photosensitivity.

Is Gellan Gum safe during pregnancy?

Safe

Widely used food-grade gelling agent with no documented reproductive or developmental concerns.

How does Gellan Gum work?

Gellan gum is a polysaccharide produced by bacterial fermentation of Sphingomonas elodea. In cosmetics it functions as a film-forming agent and viscosity controller, creating stable gel textures and improving the spreadability of formulations. It is also widely used in food as a gelling agent (E418).