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Moumoujus

AGAR.

Valuable CAS 9002-18-0 / BINDING, FRAGRANCE, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Agar is a natural polysaccharide derived from red algae, primarily employed as a gelling and thickening agent. It enhances texture, delivers a cooling sensation, and improves moisture retention for diverse skincare applications.

Summary

Viscosity controlling Binding Film-forming Moisture retention Active ingredient carrier

Science

Mechanism of Action

It forms a thermo-reversible three-dimensional hydrocolloid network via polysaccharide double helix association, functioning as a physical film-former and viscosity controller. This structure enables high moisture retention and acts as an effective carrier for active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–1%
Optimal

1%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Agar exhibits hysteresis, melting between 75-90°C and solidifying at 32-43°C. It maintains stability in ethanol up to 50% under heated conditions.

Conflicts

  • Solutions with pH below 4.0 (causes acid hydrolysis and gelling power loss)
  • High-concentration electrolytes (leads to salting out and precipitation)
  • Prolonged high-heat exposure in acidic media

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
100%
Sensitization risk Low

Agar is categorized under Polysaccharide Gums, deemed safe by the CIR Expert Panel, and holds FDA GRAS status for food use.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Agar is a valuable ingredient for precision skincare, enabling innovative textures, enhancing hydration, and facilitating active delivery across all skin types, supported by its robust gelling properties and excellent safety profile.

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