Dextrin

What is Dextrin?

Dextrin is a group of low-molecular-weight carbohydrates obtained through the partial hydrolysis of starch from plant sources such as corn, potatoes, wheat, or rice. This process breaks down long starch chains into shorter dextrin polymers, resulting in a fine, white to off-white powder. In cosmetics, it appears mainly in face powders, foundations, dry shampoos, and emulsions. It works by drawing in excess moisture and sebum for a matte finish, adhering particles together for stable product forms like pressed powders, adding volume to formulations without heaviness, and modifying flow properties to enhance spreadability and suspension of other components. Its multi-functional nature supports lightweight, non-greasy textures across makeup and skincare.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Absorbent
Absorbs water and/or sebum to reduce greasiness and shine, improve dry touch, and help keep powders and emulsions feeling lighter on skin.
Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Bulking agent
Increases mass/volume to build structure and improve handling, commonly used to adjust feel, spread, and cost-in-use without acting as a primary active.
Viscosity controlling agent
Adjusts thickness to the desired level for stability and usability, improving dispensing, suspension, and texture across many formulation types.
Binding
Provides cohesion by helping ingredients stick together, improving the strength and integrity of pressed powders, tablets, or solid bars.

Benefits

Helps mattify skin by absorbing sebum and water for reduced shine.

Improves product stability by binding powders and solids together.

Enhances texture by bulking and controlling viscosity for smoother application.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
People with oily skin seeking shine control in powders.
Individuals with starch allergies or sensitivities.
Those preferring lightweight, dry-touch formulations.
Those using products where high absorbency might overly dry skin.
Users of pressed makeup needing better wear and integrity.
People preferring minimal-ingredient products.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with minimal health concerns.
  • Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dextrin

What is dextrin made from?

Dextrin comes from partially hydrolyzed starch of plants like corn or potatoes.

Is dextrin safe for sensitive skin?

It has low irritation potential based on cosmetic safety assessments.

What products contain dextrin?

Common in face powders, foundations, and viscosity-adjusted creams.