Sclerotium Gum — Natural Biopolymer Thickener & Stabilizer
Sclerotium Gum is a natural, fermentation-derived polysaccharide produced by the fungus Sclerotium rolfsii. It is a high-performance rheology modifier and stabilizer widely used in cosmetic formulations for its ability to create elegant, clear-to-translucent gels with a smooth, non-sticky skin feel. Unlike many synthetic thickeners, Sclerotium Gum is biodegradable, naturally derived, and compatible with a broad range of cosmetic actives and electrolytes.
It is particularly valued in serum, gel, and emulsion formulations where clarity, stability, and a luxurious texture are priorities. Sclerotium Gum also functions as an emulsion stabilizer, helping to prevent phase separation and improve the long-term stability of oil-in-water systems.
Professional cosmetic ingredient — not a finished product.
Key Benefits
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Clear gel formation — produces transparent to translucent gels at low use levels; ideal for clear serums, essences, and gel moisturizers
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Elegant skin feel — smooth, non-tacky, non-sticky texture; leaves skin feeling comfortable and conditioned
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Emulsion stabilization — improves the stability of oil-in-water emulsions; reduces creaming and phase separation
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Electrolyte tolerance — stable in the presence of salts and electrolytes; compatible with formulations containing active ingredients that destabilize other gums
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Broad pH stability — refer to your supplier’s CoA for confirmed pH range
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Natural & biodegradable — fermentation-derived; suited to natural, clean-beauty, and eco-conscious formulations
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Synergistic with other gums — combines well with xanthan gum and other polysaccharides for enhanced texture and stability
How to Use
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Incorporation: Disperse in water phase with good agitation before heating, or pre-disperse in glycerin (1:5 ratio) before adding to water to prevent clumping. Heat to 70–80°C with stirring until fully hydrated and smooth
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Recommended Usage Rate: 0.2–1.5% in finished formulations (0.3–0.8% typical for gels and serums; up to 1.5% for thicker gel formulations)
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Solubility: Water-soluble; disperses in water phase
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Processing tip: Pre-dispersion in glycerin before adding to water prevents lumping and ensures smooth hydration
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pH & shelf life: Refer to your supplier’s Certificate of Analysis (CoA) or Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for confirmed values
Formulation Details
| INCI Name |
Sclerotium Gum |
| CAS Number |
39464-87-4 |
| Origin |
Fermentation-derived; Sclerotium rolfsii
|
| Appearance |
White to off-white powder |
| Solubility |
Water-soluble; disperses in water phase |
| Recommended Usage Rate |
0.2–1.5% (0.3–0.8% typical) |
| Incorporation Phase |
Water phase; pre-disperse in glycerin to prevent clumping |
| pH & Shelf Life |
Refer to supplier CoA/TDS |
| Grade |
Cosmetic Grade — External Use Only |
Pairings
All products sold are cosmetic grade. For external use only. Intended for cosmetic and personal care formulations.