Cellulose Gum

Cellulose gum is a water-soluble, cellulose-derived polymer used in cosmetics as a viscosity builder and film former. It increases thickness, stabilizes dispersed phases, and improves glide to create a smooth, uniform texture without adding oil.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A plant-based thickener that gives formulas smooth, even texture.
Category
Tone/Texture, Skin Conditioning
Type
Thickener

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves formula stability and suspension, reducing separation over time, and improves application feel with smooth slip and even distribution.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in gels, serums, moisturizers, shampoos, and mascaras to build body and keep particles uniformly dispersed.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Considered low risk and generally non-sensitizing in rinse-off and leave-on products. Rare mild irritation may occur at high levels or in tight films. No common regulatory restrictions at typical cosmetic use levels.

Is Cellulose Gum a Good Ingredient?

It consistently thickens and stabilizes across pH ranges, is inert, and shows broad compatibility, which is what gives it reliable texture and performance and earns it a Great rating; its film-forming and salt-tolerant behavior also support even application in many formats.

Products with Cellulose Gum

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