Clear Xanthan Gum

Use 0.2-1%.

 

We suggest using no more than 1% on facial products as the xanthan gum does not penetrate the skin although more may be used to make hair gels or body wraps that will be wiped off after use.

As it has a high mesh grade (14 mesh which is a larger particle size), it can be sprinkled onto water and then beaten briefly with a whisk.

 

Take care not to lift the whisk and introduce air into the gel as this will cause bubbles to form.

 

You are beating it to disperse it evenly - not to make it thicken.

 

It thickens by hydrating with water over a period of time.

It will thicken quicker with hot water but is more prone to clumping as the heat makes it expand faster.

 

Once cooled, the overall thickness is no different to when room temperature water has been used. Best not to use very cold water.

You can also use it by dissolving the Xanthan gum in a little glycerine first; this reduces the need for whisking and produces an even clearer gel as there will be few (if any) remaining air bubbles.

It is not oil soluble and will not thicken oils.

 

Oil materials can be added to the gel made with Xanthan gum but it will only hold about 5% oil before the gel starts to split.