thickener

Algin

INCI: ALGIN
CAS 9005-38-3
salt or ester of alginic acid
Limited Data
Insufficient safety data available. Consider enriching this ingredient.
Details

Description

salt or ester of alginic acid

Purpose

Function

gelling agent, thickener, film-forming agent, emulsion stabilizer
Profile

Properties

Silicone
Silicone free
Compliance

Regulatory Status

EU
Permitted
Safety
EXCELLENT
US
Permitted
Absorptionnegligible
Sensitizationnone
MoSnot established
NOAEL1.8 mg/kg
ConcernNone
Flags
eu-unrestrictedcir-approvedgras-fdano-sccs-opinionnon-sensitizinghumectanteu_children_restrictedifra_fragrancefda_food_additivejecfa_safe
Verdict

Sodium Alginate is a naturally-derived marine polysaccharide permitted without restriction under EU Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009. The CIR Expert Panel issued a safe as used conclusion covering use levels up to 50% in rinse-off formulations and up to 18% in leave-on products. Its high molecular weight renders dermal penetration negligible and sensitization potential is exceptionally low.

US Note

GRAS status affirmed under 21 CFR 184.1724 for direct food use (FEMA No. 2015). Permitted for cosmetic use under general FDA cosmetic ingredient provisions without pre-approval requirement. CIR Expert Panel safe as used conclusion (Final Report, October 22, 2015) serves as primary industry safety guidance.

Assessment

Ratings

Comedogenic4/5
LowHigh
Irritancy4/5
LowHigh
Reference

Identifiers

CAS Number
9005-38-3
INCI
ALGIN
Category
thickener
Updated
Apr 2, 2026