Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide
A cosmetic ingredient used as absorbent, binding, emulsion stabilising in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is a polysaccharide consisting of alpha-(1-3), alpha-(1-2) and/or alpha-(1-6) linked glucose units.
What does it do?
Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Absorbent
takes up water-based or oil-based substances
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Binding
holds the components of a formulation together, especially in pressed powders and compact makeup
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Emulsion stabilising
stabilises emulsions of oil and water, preventing separation over time
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Opacifying
makes a transparent or translucent formulation opaque or pearlescent
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Exfoliating
removes dead skin cells from the surface, revealing fresher skin underneath
EU regulatory status
Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide?
Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is a polysaccharide consisting of alpha-(1-3), alpha-(1-2) and/or alpha-(1-6) linked glucose units.
Is Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide do in cosmetic products?
Alpha-Glucan Polysaccharide is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: absorbent, binding, emulsion stabilising, opacifying, exfoliating.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 21/09/2023