Gellan gum
AKA: Gelrite, Polysaccharide
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
Gellan gum
CAS #
71010-52-1
Form
Powder
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Moisturizing
Antimicrobial
Improves Elasticity
Creates protective layer
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A modern polysaccharide developed in the 1970s by the bacterium Sphingomonas elodea. Introduced to cosmetics as a natural-origin thickener and gelling agent to replace synthetic polymers and improve texture in skincare products.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR