Xanthan Gum

Cosmetic thickeners and stabilizers

Thickeners are considered an aesthetic modifier (as discussed more in this post about types of cosmetic ingredients). In a formula they are essential for creating a product that is appealing to your consumer. While function (ie moisturizing, cleansing) is paramount, how a product feels can be almost as important to the end user and set your product apart from the competition.

Reasons for using thickeners:

As the name suggests, thickeners (sometimes referred to as rheological additives) are used to build viscosity and deliver optimal product consistency to your consumer.

They are also used to suspend additives in your formula

And improve product stability 

Choosing a Cosmetic Thickener

Here are the factors to consider when choosing a thickener. 

Formula type

Packaging

Viscosity and rheology

Consumer use

Manufacturing conditions

Examples:

Cellulose (ie cellulose gum, hydroxyethylcellulose, methyl cellulose)

Starch/starch derivatives (ie aluminium starch octenylsuccinate, sodium polyacrylate starch)

Gums, etc (ie guar gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan, pectins, agar)