INCI name

CELLULOSE GUM

Carboxymethylcellulose

A cellulose-based thickener.

What it is

Cellulose gum (sodium carboxymethylcellulose) is cellulose modified to dissolve in water. It thickens and stabilises formulas and binds toothpaste.

Where it is used

Found in toothpastes, gels, creams and cleansers.

Limits of interpretation

The INCI list shows which ingredients are present, not how much of each. Above 1%, ingredients are listed in descending order of weight; below 1% the order is free.

Thickeners shape texture rather than the function of a product.

Functions

Binding
Providing adhesive properties during and after compression in cosmetic tablets and/or cakes.
Emulsion stabilising
Helping the process of emulsification and improving emulsion stability and shelf-life.
Film forming
Producing (upon application) a continuous film on the skin, hair or nails.
Fragrance
Imparting an odour or taste. Creating a perceivable pleasant smell and/or masking a bad smell.
Viscosity controlling
Increasing or decreasing the viscosity (thickness) of cosmetics.

EU regulation

This ingredient is not listed in the annexes of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 in the CosIng data.

Products with this ingredient (937)

Check a full ingredient list