Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch is an excellent ingredient for improving the texture and consistency of cosmetic products. Being derived from natural starch sources and then chemically modified, it appears as a white to off-white powder in its raw form. In common products like creams, lotions, and gels, this ingredient adds a creamy texture that spreads easily on the skin. It also prevents the separation of other ingredients in a formulation. Compared to other thickening agents like Xanthan Gum and Carbomer, Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch has a slightly milder thickening ability, which is great for a wide range of products.
What is SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL STARCH used for?
Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch is a background ingredient in cosmetics, renowned for its sensory-enhancing properties. Being essentially plant-derived and non-irritating, it is widely used in both skin care and hair care products.
For skin: Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch is primarily a thickener that is used in creams and gels to make such products smoother and easier to apply. It also prevents the separation of oil-based and water-based ingredients over time. Further, this ingredient forms a light, breathable film on the surface of the skin that enhances hydration and provides a silky, non-greasy feel.
For hair: In hair care products like gels, mousses, and styling creams, Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch is used to improve the texture and application of the formulation. It forms a film on the shafts, which reduces frizz and improves manageability.
Origin
Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch comes from natural starches like corn, potato, or tapioca. After extraction, the natural starch is first cleaned and dried, and then treated with an alkaline solution to make the starch granules more reactive. Further, a carboxymethylating agent is added to make Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch. The final ingredient is purified and dried.
What does SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL STARCH do in a formulation?
BINDING|
EMULSION STABILISING|
FILM FORMING|
VISCOSITY CONTROLLINGSafety Profile
Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch is safe and non-toxic for use in cosmetics. Being a natural alternative to synthetically derived thickeners and film-formers, it is well-tolerated by most skin types. It has a very low irritation and sensitization potential and is also non-comedogenic. Additionally, Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch is biodegradable and safe for the environment.
SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL STARCH alternatives
SODIUM CARBOXYMETHYL STARCH technical profile
| Property | Values |
pH | 5 - 9 |
Solubility | Soluble in water |
Viscosity | Moderate to high |