murphyGellan gum
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Gelrite, Polysaccharide
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
OriginProduced through fermentation of Sphingomonas elodea bacteria using carbohydrate substrates. The resulting polysaccharide is purified, dried, and milled into a fine powder for cosmetic use.
Gellan gum
CAS #
71010-52-1
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
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.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not an Eye Irritant
2 studies / 2 not irritating (CIR 611)
Not a Skin Irritant (CIR report on the ingredient group)
CIR report statement covering this group of ingredients / not tested individually (CIR 611)
Not a Sensitizer (CIR report on the ingredient group)
CIR report statement covering this group of ingredients / not tested individually (CIR 611)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on0.0004–0.5%
Rinse-offNot reported
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2016
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR