Gellan gum is a biotechnologically produced polysaccharide obtained through fermentation using bacteria of the genus Sphingomonas. The ingredient is considered to be of plant origin and is used in cosmetics as an excipient with a wide range of functions. (1)

In cosmetic formulations, gellan gum primarily acts as a viscosity modifier by influencing the product’s texture and flow properties. In addition, it has film-forming properties: it forms a thin, even film, which both improves the feel on the skin and can help stabilize the formulation. (1–3)