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PECTIN

Last update on Nov 4, 2024
Pectin is a natural thickener and stabilizer used in cosmetics to achieve the desired texture and viscosity without synthetic additives. It attracts moisture to the skin and helps maintain hydration levels - making it beneficial for creams, lotions, and gels. Additionally, it has soothing, calming, and film-forming properties. In its raw form, Pectin appears as a white to light yellow powder or granules. It does not alter the product’s overall appearance due to its neutral color and forms a smooth gel-like consistency upon mixing with water. Its natural origin and safety profile make it an attractive option for formulators seeking to create effective, gentle, and eco-friendly skincare and cosmetic products.
CAS Number: 9000-69-5Chem/IUPAC Name: PectinEINECS/ELINCS No: 232-553-0COSING REF No: 35880

Products with PECTIN

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Catcol® SF-23 GOLD

by Lucid Colloids

INCI: CYAMOPSIS TETRAGONOLOBA GUM | XANTHAN GUM | ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT | LECITHIN | PECTIN
  • Recently launched
  • Sustainable option
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Glucover 01 SB/PS

by Biopolax

INCI: HYDROLYZED CORN STARCH | SODIUM GLUCONATE | PECTIN | SODIUM BENZOATE | POTASSIUM SORBATE | AQUA
  • Sustainable option
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What is PECTIN used for?

Pectin is a natural thickener and helps cosmetic products reach the desired viscosity and texture - without relying on synthetic ingredients. Its humectant properties attract moisture to the skin, enhancing hydration and leaving a smooth feel. Pectin also acts as a film-forming agent, providing a protective barrier that retains moisture and improves skin softness. Additionally, Pectin stabilizes emulsions in formulations, preventing the separation of oil and water phases. Its soothing effects make it suitable for sensitive skin products, contributing to overall skin health and enhancing the efficacy of cosmetic formulations.

Origin

Pectin is made by extracting the polysaccharide from the cell walls of fruits, primarily apples and citrus fruits. The process involves cutting the fruit into small pieces and heating it with water and an acid, such as citric acid, to break down the cell walls and release pectin. The mixture is then filtered to separate the liquid, which contains the dissolved pectin. This liquid is concentrated, precipitated with alcohol, and dried to produce the final ingredient.

What does PECTIN do in a formulation?

EMULSION STABILISING|
FILM FORMING|
HUMECTANT|
MOISTURISING|
SKIN CONDITIONING|
SMOOTHING|
SOOTHING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Safety Profile

Pectin has a favorable safety profile and is well-tolerated by most skin types. It has a low risk of irritation or allergic reactions, making it suitable for a wide range of products. Regulatory agencies, including the FDA and EU authorities, recognize pectin as a safe ingredient in cosmetics, with no specific concentration restrictions. However, patch testing is advisable to ensure individual compatibility.

PECTIN alternatives

PECTIN technical profile

Property Values
pH 4-7.5
Solubility Soluble in water
Viscosity Low to moderate