A lightweight thickener that helps create smooth, luxurious textures in skincare and beauty products without feeling heavy on skin.
CAS #
9003-39-8
Form
Powder
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Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Fights Bacteria
Reduces Inflammation
Antioxidant Protection
Protects skin from damage
Supports wound healing
Maintains skin elasticity
Traditional Use
Developed in Germany in the 1930s as a plasma substitute for medical use. Adopted in cosmetics starting in the 1950s as a film-forming agent, binder, and stabilizer in products like hairsprays, lotions, and color cosmetics.