Xanthan gum is a natural ingredient that helps preserve the properties of cosmetic and hygiene products for a longer period, improves their properties. It is also used in the cosmetic industry as a thickener, stabilizer.

Synonyms: Xanthan Gum . Patented formulas: Jungbunzlauer-Xanthan Gum, Artec Chemical Xanthan gum, Ronas Chemicals-Xanthan Gum, Kahlgum 6650 FQ80 - Xanthan Gum, NOMCORT ZZ, Keldent® Xanthan Gum, ISP Captivates™ GL7003 Discontinued, Keldent®, Cosphaderm® X 17, Divalin GX , Nutrimel® Hair, VANATURAL® XGB, Marine® Juvenium, Vegetal® Juvenium, Almondermin® AF LS 8767, Solagum AX, Rheocare® XG, Versaflex™ V-150, Chcogum T, Lipomoist -2022, Cerasome Oxygen.

The action of xanthan gum in cosmetics

Xanthan gum is a natural high molecular weight polysaccharide. It consists of repeating units of five monosaccharides, formed by two molecules of glucose, two of mannose, and one of glucuronic acid, held together by strong hydrogen bonds. As a result, xanthan gum has excellent viscosity and water solubility properties combined with excellent stability that is maintained over a very wide range of temperatures and acidity. Xanthan gum is insensitive to electrolytes and high temperatures, stable over a wide pH range, and in addition meets high microbiological standards.

Due to this, the addition of xanthan gum to the formula of almost any product improves its condition (emulsions, pastes), as well as the dispersion and absorption of the product by the skin. It also helps to improve the moisture retention of the product, which further prolongs the action and shelf life of the cosmetic product.

Xanthan gum acts as a rheology modifier in aqueous formulas and as a stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions. It also acts as a binder, emulsion stabilizer, skin conditioning agent, emulsifier and thickener. In addition, xanthan gum is responsible for the pleasant sensation when using such a tool.

Often used in combination with other natural gums - this is perhaps the most common natural thickener that is only used in cosmetics. However, the combination of xanthan gum and bentonite clay is especially interesting: they enhance each other's action and act as a particularly powerful thickener, rheology modifier and stabilizer that hydrates quickly even when stirred in cold water. This combination is particularly recommended for suspensions and emulsions that are difficult to stabilize and where heating of the aqueous phase or other transformative processes is unacceptable, but is not recommended for compositions containing oxidizing agents or very alkaline formulas.

Who needs xanthan gum

This component has no direct indications, since it is an auxiliary substance (emulsifier, rheological modifier, stabilizer), although it provides an additional effect of moisturizing the skin. Also works as a substance that forms an occlusive protective film on the surface of the skin.

Who should not take xanthan gum?

Xanthan gum is safe, non-toxic, non-carcinogenic and non-irritating to the skin. It is used in the food industry: it is a neutral polysaccharide. Strict contraindication - reaction of individual hypersensitivity.

Cosmetics containing xanthan gum

It is widely used in skin care products and other cosmetic products, including shampoos and conditioners. Often found in toothpastes and other personal care products. Xanthan gum is very common in liquid skin care formulations such as lotions and oral care products. Suitable for organic, natural and vegan cosmetics as it is not sourced from animals or inorganic/synthetic compounds.

According to the European Union Regulation, the maximum allowable concentration of this component in finished cosmetic products is 10%, although the standard concentration does not exceed 0.5%.

Sources of xanthan gum

By nature, xanthan gum is an extracellular bacterial polysaccharide (exopolysaccharide) obtained by fermentation of the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris using sucrose. In the life cycle of these microorganisms (inhabiting cruciferous plants), xanthan gum serves as their protection against viruses and drying out of the cell wall. In production, xanthan is first obtained by aerobic fermentation of Xanthomonas campestris in an aqueous solution of carbohydrates, nitrogen sources. Next, the resulting product is pasteurized and precipitated with alcohol or purified by microfiltration.

The bacterial culture in which xanthan gum is produced is grown in large containers under conditions of careful control of air supply, agitation, chemical composition of the medium and its temperature.

Fermentation lasts about 4 days - then the polymer is removed from the medium by adding isopropyl alcohol, dried and ground to a powder that is already soluble in water or salt solution. Notably, the properties of xanthan gum can be controlled by changing the living conditions of Xanthomonas campestris. The backbone of the polymer is identical to the cellulose molecule. Branches are residues of glucose, mannose, glucuronic acid molecules, as well as pyruvic (pyruvate) and acetyl groups. The number of pyruvate groups determines the viscosity of xanthan aqueous solutions, and for some industrial applications acidic groups are neutralized by converting xanthan to potassium, sodium, or calcium salts. For the cosmetic industry, microorganisms are usually contained in a hydrocarbon medium, the fermentation process is carried out with the addition of proteins or amino acids and nitrogen. The initial product looks like a white powder, which is highly soluble in water.

INCI: Xanthan Gum

xanthan gum is a natural polysaccharide. It is produced by the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris, which ferment ordinary sugar into a viscous and sticky substance. Xanthan was discovered in the late fifties in the United States in the laboratory of the Department of Agriculture as a result of research into industrial applications of microbiotic biopolymers. Research has shown that the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, found in cabbage vegetables, produces a high molecular weight polysaccharide. This polysaccharide is found in the mucus that protects the bacterium from viruses and desiccation.

The way to obtain xanthan in modern industry is to purposefully grow the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris under special conditions for 4 days, followed by drying and grinding.

Xanthan - 100% natural and safe remedy widely used in the food and cosmetic industries. One of the most valuable properties of xanthan gum is the ability increase the viscosity of liquids and get the right consistency.

In the food industry, for example, confectioners add xanthan gum to flour to increase viscosity and adhesive properties. The production of a favorite children's treat - ice cream is also not complete without the participation of this natural thickener. Ability of xanthan gum hold a lot of moisture food workers are also used in the manufacture of sauces, milk drinks, marmalade and confectionery creams ...

We are primarily interested in the use of xanthan gum for the preparation of cosmetics- gels, creams, soaps, conditioners and tonics. In addition to regulating the consistency, another important quality of gum is of great importance here - property stability. It is used in various cosmetic compositions, since it does not respond to changes in the acidity level and temperature of the solution (it withstands strong heat during sterilization).

Xanthan gum is perfectly soluble not only in water, but also in milk and cream added to cosmetics in order to improve its quality. She is not afraid of food alcohol - ethanol, which is used as a solvent for cosmetic preparations. Any alcoholic extracts of herbs (up to 40% of the total volume), oils, extracts and other active substances can be safely added to an aqueous solution of xanthan gum.

The properties of xanthan as a thickener and stabilizer are enhanced by the addition of another natural substance - guar gum. These two substances can be used together to make fragrant soap, thick cream and moisturizing gel. For 1 part by weight of xanthan gum, 1-2 parts of guar are usually taken. Their total weight concentration in cosmetics should be in the range of 0.1 to 0.5%.

An aqueous solution of xanthan can be used neat as a skin cleanser and sun and wind protection. According to the structure, an aqueous solution of xanthan gum is a gel familiar to us. However, it is much more useful to enrich it with essential and base oils, glycerin or supercritical extracts. In this case, the therapeutic and cosmetic effect is manifested in full force.

A small amount of xanthan powder (0.1 - 0.5% of the total weight of the agent) is added to the warm water phase (it is ideal to use hydrosols as the water phase). For dosing without the use of scales, the portion of gum required for gel formation is placed on the tip of a knife (per 50 ml of the aqueous phase).

The solution is left for 1-2 hours to thicken, after which fatty base oil (5-10%) is poured into it and a few drops of any vegetable ester (5-10 drops) are added. Fatty base oil may not be added, then we will get a light, non-greasy gel (for example, for the summer).

The gel-like mass is mixed and used as an independent cosmetic product or as an additive to the cream (30 ml of cream will require ½ teaspoon of gel).

Ready-made products based on xanthan are stored in a dark and cool place in a sealed form. Because gels contain an aqueous phase, they are stored for a short time, about 1 month in the refrigerator. You can use preservatives, for example, vitamin E in an amount of 2% of the total volume of the finished product.

Store xanthan gum in a dry place, protected from moisture, in a tightly closed jar at room temperature.

A variety of decorative cosmetics and other cosmetic products for body and hair care introduce every representative of the fair sex into the world of illusions and deceit. What is written on billboards and the cover of the product today (for example, an effective youth cream) is never true. In the best case, the effect of the cream will be diminished tenfold, while in addition to some external improvements, a person receives internal deterioration.

Nowadays, chemistry is everywhere, and often those components that are used in cosmetology are also popular in industry. When shopping in stores, you should carefully study the composition of all cosmetics. So, most often in the composition of the cream you can find xanthan gum.

Xanthan was first discovered in the late fifties in the laboratory of the US Department of Agriculture. At that time, research was being done on the industrial application of microbiotic biopolymers. The bacterium Xanthomonas campestris was found in cabbage vegetables and found to produce a high molecular weight polysaccharide. This polysaccharide protected the bacterium from viruses and desiccation. It was called Xanthan in the early 60s for the first time launched into industrial production under the trade name Kelzan. Made by Kelco.

Xanth gum is a food additive that belongs to the group of emulsifiers, stabilizers and thickeners. It looks like an ordinary white or beige powder and dissolves quickly in cold and hot water.

The xanthan-producing crop is grown in large containers under carefully controlled air supply, agitation, media chemistry and temperature. This process takes no more than 4 days. After that, the polysaccharide is removed from the medium by adding isopropyl alcohol, dried and ground to a powder.

Properties:

• stabilizer, emulsifier;
• gelling agent;
• stabilizer;
• chemical resistance to alcohol, acid and other enzymes;
• resistant to high and low temperatures;
• resistant to changes in pH;
• resistant to enzymatic degradation.

These properties help the resin extend the shelf life of a particular product or cosmetic.

The benefits and harms of xanthan gum in cosmetics

Khanthan gum is used as a food additive and a component that is added to cosmetics. Its peculiarity lies in the ability to thicken the mass and stabilize it. Such a thickener is obtained by the fermentation of glucose, lactose or sucrose according to a special bacterium. It is known that no negative results of studies on hanthan gum have been established. Therefore, the component is actively used both in cosmetology and in the food industry.

However, experts say that people who are allergic to wheat and corn, dairy and soy products should avoid xanth gum cosmetics. There is a high possibility of an allergic reaction. The rest of the component is absolutely safe for people and does not pose any harm to health.

The ingredient is found almost everywhere, both in cheap and expensive cosmetics. Therefore, allergy sufferers need to be careful. In any case, when buying a new cosmetic, it is worth observing the general condition in order to detect negative changes in the body, such as nausea, dizziness, irritation, etc. Then it will be much easier to identify and eliminate the causes.

Cosmetic properties of xanthan gum:

• thanks to xanthan, a protective film is formed on the face;
• moisturizing and moisture-retaining properties;
• thickener;
• emulsifier and stabilizer for cosmetic mixtures;
• easily cleanses the skin.

Application of xanth resin

You can meet xanthus resin as part of the following products:

• shampoos;
• creams for hands, face and body;
• dietary products;
• sweet drinks;
• frozen and dairy products;
• fast food, etc.

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Xanthan/Xanthan gum in cosmetics is a natural stabilizer and thickener widely used primarily in the production of all types of cosmetics and personal care products. Suitable for all types of cosmetics without exception, it is used by supporters of vegetarianism, since the source of its origin is not animals or inorganic / synthetic compounds.

The main advantage over other substances similar to it is its good solubility in water and the ability to increase the viscosity of any substance in a wide range of acidity and temperatures. Xanthan is not affected by high temperatures, has a high resistance to electrolytes and meets all generally accepted norms and standards.

So what exactly is xanthan gum? It is a polysaccharide of natural origin, having a high molecular weight and consisting of monosaccharides formed by molecules of glucuronic acid, mannose and glucose. Thanks to this composition, xanthan gum improves the quality of any paste and emulsion, provides moisture retention in cosmetic preparations and extends the life of products.

What cosmetic preparations may contain xanthan

The substance is popular with manufacturers of cosmetics. Thanks to the content of xanthan gum, cosmetic preparations acquire a homogeneous, creamy consistency, their texture improves and the level of foam formation increases. Xanthan is an essential ingredient:

• foams and gels:
• hair products;
• toothpastes;
• lotions;
• creams;
• various lubricants.

Manufacturers of medical products use xanthan gum in the manufacture of capsules and syrups. It is introduced into the composition of drugs that prevent thrombosis and blood substitutes.

In the food industry, E415 is added in the manufacture of jelly-like products such as jams and jellies, sauces and mayonnaises. Xanthan will be an essential ingredient in various pastry fillings, it is added to dairy desserts, yogurts, cheeses and instant soups. In the meat processing industry, xanthan gum is used in the production of sausages, canned food and meat products as a moisture-retaining substance.

In accordance with the norms of the EU Regulation, the maximum permissible content of xnathan in finished cosmetic preparations should not exceed 10%, despite the fact that the standard concentration is 0.5%.

Advantages and disadvantages of cosmetics containing xanthan gum

American scientists in 1968 conducted a series of studies, as a result of which it was proved that xanthan gum is absolutely safe for the human body. Today there are no data on the adverse effects of the E-415 component on health.

Xanthan is actively used in the cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries by European, American and Japanese manufacturers. In the Russian Federation, this substance is also approved for use as a food additive and is used as an emulsifier, stabilizer, and texture preserver in the production of dietary and low-calorie foods. Xanthan gum can be used alone or in combination with other thickeners.

This completely natural product does not cause allergic reactions, which is why the substance is used in the manufacture of dietary products and baby food.

Xanthan is not absorbed or digested by the digestive tract, therefore, despite the fact that there is no data on the maximum allowable daily intake of the substance, an increased concentration of the product in the human body can manifest itself as an intestinal disorder.

Can xanthan be harmful to health?

It is impossible to talk about direct indications or contraindications for the use of xanthan gum, since it acts as an auxiliary substance, and works as a stabilizer, rheological modifier and emulsifier. E415 in the composition of cosmetics enhances the moisturizing effect, and also creates a special protective film on the upper layer of the skin.

Xanthan gum is classified as safe for health products, it does not have carcinogens and other toxic components. Gum is used as a neutral polysaccharide in the food industry. The only contraindication to the use is individual intolerance to xanthan.

Xanthan has excellent moisture-retaining properties, and regular use of creams and lotions with the addition of this substance helps to increase skin elasticity, smooth wrinkles and restore the water-fat balance of skin cells.

Xanthan gum is one of the most common natural thickeners that can be used alone or in combination with other ingredients. For example, gum and bentonite clay, interacting with each other, form a powerful thickener and stabilizer that instantly hydrates even in low temperature water. This combination is applicable in cases where heating of an aqueous solution is unacceptable and acidic compounds cannot be used, and also as a stabilizer for complex emulsions and suspensions.

xanthan gum (xanthan gum, supraxan, gum) - polysaccharide (C 35 H 49 O 29) n used as a thickener, gelling agent and stabilizer. Produced by the fermentation of hydrocarbons using bacteria Xanthomonas campestris. Xanthan is produced by bacteria to protect against drying out. This property makes it a popular component of skin moisturizing cosmetics.

Basic properties:

• thickener and gelling agent;
• emulsifier and stabilizer;
• chemical resistance to enzymes, alcohols, acids;
• resistance to both high (up to +120ºС) and low (up to −20ºС) temperatures;
• high viscosity values ​​in the range from 2 to 12.

Thanks to these properties, it improves the structure of cosmetics, stabilizes and extends the shelf life for a long time. Widely used in the production of sauces, drinks, desserts, dairy products, ice cream, etc.

Xanthan has been assigned the food additive code E415.

Harm:

It is often mentioned that xanthan is harmful only on the basis that its nutritional supplement code begins with an "E". Of course, no explanations and arguments are given. Just bad, that's all. Sometimes it is even contemptuously referred to as "microbial sugar."

You will not please these alarmist citizens - they do not like the “chemo” substance because it is “synthetic”, they did not like the natural substance because it is “microbial”. Numerous laboratory studies that have proven the complete safety of xanthan, as usual, do not care.

Conclusion:

Xanthan gum is a useful component of cosmetics, found in both "natural" and "vegetarian" cosmetics. No harmful properties have been identified in xanthan, and the benefits are obvious.