Welan Gum
AKA “Polysaccharide Gum, Natural Thickener
Ingredient
Ingredient Facts
Welan gum
AKA: Polysaccharide Gum, Natural Thickener
Ingredient · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Not Clean
Welan Gum is a gum produced by the fermentation of Alcaligenes
CAS #
96949-22-3
See origin →
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Improves Elasticity
Traditional Use
A polysaccharide biopolymer produced by fermentation, developed in the 1970s by food and cosmetic industries. Used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in gels, lotions, and serums.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR