Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide widely utilized in various industries, such as foods, oil production, and cosmetics. Its versatility as an effective thickening agent, emulsifier, and stabilizer helps to prevent ingredients from separating. The production of xanthan gum involves a fermentation process using simple sugars and is named after the bacteria species used, Xanthomonas campestris. This discovery was made by Allene Rosalind Jeanes and her research team at the United States Department of Agriculture and later brought into commercial production by CP Kelco under the trade name Kelzan in the early 1960s.
Xanthan gum received approval for use in foods in 1968 and is considered a safe food additive in the US, Canada, European countries, and many others, designated with E number E415 and CAS number 11138-66-2.
In the realm of skincare, xanthan gum serves as a thickening agent, texture enhancer, and emulsion stabilizer, particularly useful for mixtures of oil and water, such as in creams and lotions. It prevents separation and ensures a stable product. Due to its binding properties, it is also added to various cosmetic formulations to keep their ingredients together and prevent separation.
As an emulsifier, xanthan gum helps to blend oil and water-based components in skincare products, resulting in a uniform and stable mixture. It aids in dispersing oil droplets in water and vice versa, maintaining the emulsion’s stability over time.
Additionally, xanthan gum functions as a thickening agent by creating a gel-like consistency when added to water, enhancing the texture and thickness of cosmetic products, making them more pleasant to apply.
Xanthan gum is considered safe for use by both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for direct addition to food and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel for skincare and personal use products.
While xanthan gum can be derived from sources like corn, wheat, dairy, and soy, causing allergies in some individuals, adverse reactions are more likely to occur when ingested rather than when applied to the skin.
