Xanthan Gum
Xanthan gum
- Role
- A thickener of microbial origin that gives a water-based formula a gel-like viscosity.
- Catalog formulas
- 4
- Type
- Texture
- Verified
- 09.11.2026
What does this ingredient do in an antiperspirant?
A high-molecular-weight polysaccharide produced by the microorganism Xanthomonas campestris; in hot water it forms viscous, gel-like solutions. INCI functions: viscosity controlling, gel forming, emulsion stabilising, binding, emulsifying and skin conditioning.
Part of a system, not a label in isolation
In roll-ons and cream deodorants it thickens the water-based formula and stabilises the emulsion so the product does not run. It does not reduce sweating.
In 2016 the CIR reviewed 34 microbial polysaccharide gums and concluded that they are safe in the present practices of use and concentration; the CIR summary table lists concentrations of 0.00001–6% for Xanthan Gum.
It is used as a thickener; an individual reaction to the finished product is possible.
Not the same as Sclerotium Gum, a different microbial gum with its own INCI name. Nor is it Cellulose Gum, which is chemically modified cellulose.
Products containing Xanthan Gum
Links are based on the complete published INCI list for the exact product version.
Sources
The conclusions apply to the stated conditions and jurisdictions, not automatically to every concentration or product.
- EU CosIng: Xanthan Gum Supports: INCI functions, substance identity
- COSMILE Europe (Cosmetics Europe): Xanthan Gum Supports: substance description
- CIR: Safety Assessment of Microbial Polysaccharide Gums as Used in Cosmetics (2016) Supports: safety assessment
- CIR: Quick Reference Table (summary of conclusions, 2014) Supports: use concentrations