Dehydroxanthan Gum

DEH

9/10

Concern level

High concern

Dehydroxanthan gum is a high-molecular-weight microbial polysaccharide gum used primarily as a viscosity-increasing agent, stabilizer, film former, and suspension aid in cosmetic formulas. It is included in CIR’s microbial polysaccharide gum safety assessment, which concluded these ingredients are safe as used in cosmetics in current practices of use and concentration. It is also listed in the EU CosIng database and has an FDA UNII entry with synonym mapping to CAS 11138-66-2. ([cir-safety.org](https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/microb092012rep.pdf))

Pore-clogging

Non-comedogenic

Pregnancy

Safe

Regulatory

No data

Benefits

Supports Barrier Function

Chemical Properties

pH Range

2.00 - 12.00

Typical Concentration

0.10% - 1.00%

CAS Number: 11138-66-2

Skin Type Compatibility

dry skin8/10

oily skin8/10

sensitive skin9/10

acne prone9/10

mature skin8/10

normal skin9/10

Interactions

incompatible with: No specific high-risk ingredient interactions are established in public safety references., Performance may be reduced or viscosity altered by high electrolyte loads, extreme pH, or formulation conditions that destabilize polysaccharide networks.

Risks & Warnings

Low inherent risk overall. Main concern is rare individual sensitivity/irritation to polysaccharide gums or to the finished formula, especially if combined with other irritating actives, high solvent loads, or poor preservative systems. As with most polymeric thickeners, inhalation of airborne powder during manufacturing should be minimized. ([cir-safety.org](https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/microb092012rep.pdf))

Vegan Cruelty-Free

Found In Products

Kate Somerville

ExfoliKate™ Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

CLINIQUE

Moisture Surge™ Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 28 Sheer Hydrator Moisturizer

Skinfix