Guar Gum

HOW DOES GUAR GUM WORK?

With emulsifying properties, Guar Gum combines equally well with both solids and liquids, helping to contribute thickness and fluffiness to a formula, thereby changing them into pastes. For this reason, it is commonly found in toothpaste, as it helps to facilitate the extraction of the product from the tube with minimal pressure. The benefit of Guar Gum, when compared to other thickening agents, is that it can be added to aqueous solutions without the need for prior heating. Also, due to its thickening effectiveness, only tiny amounts of Guar Gum are needed to enhance a product’s consistency. Guar Gum’s surfactant quality helps to enhance lather, making it ideal for use in soaps. In shaving products, it helps decrease friction for easier use of razors, and its exceptional conditioning ability helps to soften both skin and hair. Guar Gum is also reputed to extend the shelf life of various skincare products.

GUAR GUM SOLUBILITY

To add Guar Gum to cosmetics formulations, it must first be hydrated with water of any temperature (cool, room temperature, warm, hot). Begin by churning water with a high-shear mixer and pouring the gum in slowly until it is fully incorporated into the vortex. After it is fully hydrated and viscous, it can then be added to the recipe in its water phase. Alternatively, it may be added to the recipe after all the phases have been combined. The final product should ideally have a pH level between 5.0 and 9.0.

GUAR GUM USES

When added to this kind of formulation…

Creams, Lotions,

Shampoos, Conditioners,

Lipsticks, Deodorants,

Face Masks, Shaving Products,

Ointments,

Bar Soaps, Liquid Soaps

EFFECTS
Guar Gum functions as a(n):

Emulsifier
Stabilizer
Thickener
Moisturizer
Softener
Conditioner
Whitening agent

It helps to:

Increase product viscosity

Lubricate and improve product glide on the skin

Prevent water loss

Prevent the loss of any other liquid from a gel formulation (known as “syneresis”)

Suspend solid particles

Extend product shelf life

Condition hair and skin for improved suppleness

Improve hair manageability by reducing tangling in both wet and dry strands

Restore the skin’s natural moisture

Soften the skin to reduce irritation, cracking, and peeling

Lift and remove dirt

Soothe skin

Hydrate the hair and scalp to protect against dryness

Prevent frizz, create a protective layer against environmental pollutants, reduce static electricity

Prevent a buildup of polymers in hair

The recommended maximum dosage is .5%-2%