To naturally thicken certain beauty treatments, cosmetology specialists commonly use gums. Classified among these polymers, "Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum" is one of the main gums used to preserve skin or hair care products. What is it? What is its use in beauty treatments? Let's focus.
What is "Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum" and what is its utility?
Summary
Published on February 2, 2024, by Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences — 3 min of reading
What is "Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum"?
The "Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum" is the INCI name for Tara gum, also known as Peruvian carob. This natural gum is obtained from the endosperm of the seeds of the Tara tree or Caesalpinia spinosa which grows in South America, specifically in the Andes in Peru. Of plant origin, this ingredient is compatible with organic skincare. The extraction of Tara gum is carried out using a mechanical method and does not require the use of solvents.
Similar to guar gum, this ingredient enhances the regulation of aqueous bodies, even at low temperatures. However, once heated, this gum increases viscosity by at least 30%. Tara gum offers various benefits. Indeed, with a high content of vitamins C and B as well as complex sugars, this gum fights against dehydration and preserves the skin's hydration barrier. Tara gum comes in the form of a white powder with a neutral taste and a colour ranging from white to light yellow. This ingredient is stable over a wide pH range.
What is the utility of Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum?
Thanks to its thickening properties, Tara gum is capable of altering the viscosity of skincare products. This gum also plays the role of a stabiliser for emulsions in conjunction with an emulsifier. It thus provides a smooth application effect to the products and gives them a soft texture. This film-forming agent also allows for the skin or hair to be covered with a protective film, thereby preserving their hydration. Moreover, it is used to gel floral waters as well as aqueous phases. Tara gum is also a skin conditioning agent. It is also used in the food industry as a food additive. In this case, it is used to modify the consistency of food.
Which skincare products contain "Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum"?
Tara gum is incorporated into the formulation of a wide range of skincare and haircare products. This ingredient is used in the composition of milks, creams, and lotions with varying thickness. It is also present in moisturising treatments in the form of creams, lotions, or milks. Furthermore, Tara gum is used in the formulation of haircare products and shampoos. This ingredient is also beneficial for the preparation of body and facial cleansing products such as shower gels and liquid soaps. This gum additionally aids in the solidification of soaps. It is also an ingredient used in makeup removers.
