Quick answer
Natural ingredient that serves as a thickener in skin care; Composed of polysaccharides taken from the cell walls of some algae; Also used in food as a vegan substitute for gelatin; Ruled safe as used in cosmetics Key benefits: Hydration.
Agar
Updated
Agar
Purpose
This thickening ingredient is composed of sugars from the cell walls of algae, and in cooking is used as a vegan substitute for gelatin.
Rating
GOOD
Category
Plant Extracts, Antioxidant, Texture Enhancer, Emollient
INCI Purpose
BINDING, FRAGRANCE, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
Benefits
Alternative Names
At a Glance
Natural ingredient that serves as a thickener in skin care
Composed of polysaccharides taken from the cell walls of some algae
Also used in food as a vegan substitute for gelatin
Ruled safe as used in cosmetics
Article
Agar is a natural ingredient that serves as a thickening agent and emulsion stabilizer in cosmetics. It has a jelly-like texture and is composed of polysaccharides (agarose and agaropectin) taken from the cell walls of some types of red algae. It can work synergistically in combination with glycerin as a moisturizing agent.
In cooking, agar is used as a gelling agent, most often as a vegan substitute for gelatin. In scientific settings it is used as a base to grow bacteria and mold cultures for research.
The United States Food and Drug Administration has ruled agar safe in its use as a food additive, and the independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review board also deems agar safe as used in cosmetics applications.
See: Algae
References