Agar is a natural ingredient that acts as a thickening agent and enhances the texture of cosmetic and personal care products to give them a rich, smooth feel. It is a potent emollient that deeply hydrates the skin. Additionally, this ingredient stabilizes the formulations and prevents other components from separating. In its raw form, Agar has a jelly-like texture that is yellowish-orange or yellowish-gray in color. It rapidly absorbs water and swells to form a viscous liquid that helps in adjusting the consistency of formulations. The chemical formula of Agar is C14H24O9 and it has a good safety profile.
CAS Number: 9002-18-0Chem/IUPAC Name: AgarEINECS/ELINCS No: 232-658-1COSING REF No: 31385Products with AGAR
With samples available
Natpearl Cherry
by Sweetch
- Recently launched
- Sustainable option
NatPearl Pure
by Sweetch
- Sustainable option
NatPearl Olive
by Sweetch
- Sustainable option
What is AGAR used for?
Agar is a versatile ingredient benefiting the skin care and cosmetic industry owing to its hydrating, soothing, and texture-enhancing properties.
- Skin care: Agar is used in skin care for its hydrating and soothing properties. It forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and preventing dehydration. Additionally, Agar helps to improve skin texture and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for sensitive or irritated skin
- Decorative cosmetics: In cosmetics, Agar is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in various formulations such as creams, lotions, and masks. It helps to improve the texture and consistency of products, ensuring smooth application and even distribution of active ingredients. Moreover, Agar provides a moisturizing effect, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple
Origin
Agar is derived from red algae or seaweed, primarily from species of Gelidium, Gracilaria, and Pterocladia. To make agar, seaweed is harvested, cleaned, and then boiled in water to extract the agarose component. The extracted solution is filtered to remove impurities and then cooled to solidify into a gel-like substance.
What does AGAR do in a formulation?
EMOLLIENT|
HUMECTANT|
MOISTURISING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
SMOOTHING|
STABILISINGSafety Profile
Agar is considered safe for topical use and reports no known side effects. It is also non-comedogenic, making it perfect for oily and sensitive skin. However, proper formulation is essential and patch testing is necessary to prevent risks.
AGAR alternatives
AGAR technical profile
| Property | Values |
| Melting Point | 85°C |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in cold water; soluble in boiling water |
| Viscosity | High |