Cellulose Gum

Good

Texture enhancer

No known benefits

Cellulose Gum at a glance

  • Natural polymer that helps thicken cosmetics
  • Its water-binding and film-forming properties to improve skin’s hydration
  • Can be used to control the viscosity and help products dispense properly
  • Plays a role in stabilizing water-based emulsions

Cellulose Gum description

Cellulose gum is a natural, plant-derived ingredient that is most often used as a thickener but also used as a film-forming agent. The versatility of cellulose gum makes it a valuable addition to many types of water-based formulas since it also helps control viscosity to improve how products dispense. In addition, cellulose gum plays a role in stabilizing water-based emulsions. This ingredient has been deemed safe as used in cosmetics by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel. Cellulose gum is also a food-grade ingredient, further testament to its safety. Usage levels in cosmetics and oral care products such as toothpaste range from 0.0002–20%.

Cellulose Gum references

  • Journal of Materials Science, Materials Medicine, May 2020, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2009
  • Preventive Nutrition and Food Science, September 2018, pages 269–274
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2009, pages 1–49

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.