Xanthan Gum

Xanthan Gum

1. Thickening Agent

Xanthan gum is used to increase the viscosity of liquids, giving products like lotions, creams, and gels their desired thickness.

How to Use:

• Concentration: Use 0.1%–1% xanthan gum to thicken formulations.
• Incorporation: Slowly sprinkle xanthan gum into the water phase or liquid mixture while stirring to avoid clumping. For best results, use a high-shear mixer or blend until fully dissolved.

2. Stabilizer in Emulsions

Xanthan gum helps stabilize emulsions (mixtures of oil and water), preventing separation and ensuring consistency in creams, lotions, and other emulsified products.

How to Use:

• Concentration: Typically, 0.2%–1% is sufficient for stabilization.
• Incorporation: Add xanthan gum to the water phase and mix well before combining with the oil phase. This ensures uniform dispersion and prevents separation.

3. Gel Formation

Xanthan gum is used to create gel-like textures in products such as hair gels, facial masks, and body gels.

How to Use:

• Concentration: Use 0.5%–2% xanthan gum for gel formulations, depending on the desired thickness.
• Incorporation: Mix xanthan gum into the water phase slowly, ensuring even dispersion. A cold water phase is recommended to prevent premature gelling.

4. Suspension Agent

Xanthan gum is also used to suspend solid particles in liquids, which is especially useful in products like exfoliating scrubs or liquid cleansers.

How to Use:

• Concentration: Use 0.5%–1% to suspend particles effectively.
• Incorporation: Gradually blend xanthan gum into the liquid while stirring to ensure an even suspension of particles.

5. Rheology Modifier

Xanthan gum is used to adjust the flow properties of a formulation, providing the right balance of thickness and spreadability, especially in lotions, creams, and serums.

How to Use:

• Concentration: Use 0.1%–0.5% for slight viscosity adjustments.
• Incorporation: Slowly add xanthan gum to the water phase, mixing continuously to ensure uniform dispersion and desired texture.

General Tips for Using Xanthan Gum

Dissolution: Always add xanthan gum slowly to avoid clumping. Using a high-shear mixer or dispersing it in glycerin or propylene glycol before adding it to water can help achieve a smooth mixture.

Temperature Considerations: Xanthan gum is effective in both hot and cold water phases. However, it dissolves better in warm or room temperature water.

pH Compatibility: Xanthan gum is stable across a wide pH range (3 to 10), making it suitable for most formulations.

Viscosity Adjustments: If the viscosity is too high, reduce the concentration of xanthan gum. If the viscosity is too low, add more until you achieve the desired texture.

• Form - Powder

For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. In case of irritation, discontinue use and consult a physician. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place.