Description

Natto Gum is a natural polysaccharide derived from the fermentation of soybeans by the bacterium Bacillus natto. It is primarily used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in various cosmetic and personal care products. Natto Gum is known for its high viscosity, ability to form gels, and moisturizing properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure:

Polysaccharides: Natto Gum consists mainly of polysaccharides, including natto-derived enzymes and saccharides.
Glucuronic Acid: A component that contributes to its gel-forming and hydrating properties.
Amino Acids: Present in small amounts, which may offer additional skin benefits.

Physical Properties:

Appearance: Typically a translucent, gel-like substance.
Odor: Mild and natural, with no strong or distinctive odor.
Texture: Smooth and viscous, with a gel-like consistency that can thicken and stabilize formulations.

Production Process:

The production of Natto Gum involves:

Fermentation: Soybeans are fermented with Bacillus natto to produce the gum.
Extraction: The gum is extracted from the fermented soybeans.
Purification: The extracted gum is purified to remove any impurities or unwanted components.
Formulation: Incorporation of the purified Natto Gum into cosmetic and personal care products.

Applications:

Cosmetics: Used in creams, lotions, and serums as a thickener, stabilizer, and moisturizer.
Personal Care: Added to various personal care products for its hydrating and gel-forming properties.
Pharmaceuticals: Sometimes used in pharmaceutical formulations for its stabilizing and gelling effects.

Environmental and Safety Considerations:

Generally regarded as safe for topical application; however, it should be used according to established guidelines to avoid potential allergic reactions or skin irritations. It is important to ensure that Natto Gum is sourced sustainably and is free from contaminants.

INCI Functions:


Film-forming agent. It produces, upon application, a very thin continuous film with an optimal balance of cohesion, adhesion and stickiness on skin, hair or nails to counteract or limit damage from external phenomena such as chemicals, UV rays and pollution.
Synonyms:

CAS: 2622109