Pullulan

What is Pullulan?

Pullulan is a water-soluble polysaccharide produced through the fermentation of starch or sugars by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. Chemically, it consists of repeating maltotriose units linked by alpha-1,4 and alpha-1,6 glucosidic bonds, forming a linear, high-molecular-weight polymer. In cosmetics, it appears in skincare masks, serums, makeup, and hair products. It functions by binding powders and pigments into stable compacts, preventing crumbling. As a film former, it creates a sheer, flexible layer on skin or hair, boosting water resistance, longevity, and smoothness without stickiness. This makes it ideal for sheet masks, where it helps deliver actives, and in primers for extended makeup hold. Its biocompatibility stems from its natural origin and neutral properties.

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

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Binder
Helps hold solid ingredients together to form cohesive tablets, compacts, or sticks, improving pressability, integrity, and wear of the finished product.
Film former
Creates a continuous film on skin or hair to improve wear, water resistance, transfer resistance, shine, or hold in sunscreens, makeup, and styling products.
Binding
Provides cohesion by helping ingredients stick together, improving the strength and integrity of pressed powders, tablets, or solid bars.

Benefits

Enhances product stability by binding ingredients into cohesive forms like powders and sticks.

Forms a protective, breathable film that improves water and transfer resistance in makeup and sunscreens.

Supports smooth application and extended wear without heaviness or residue.

Who It's For

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

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals seeking natural alternatives for binding in pressed cosmetics.
Those with rare sensitivities to fungal-derived polysaccharides.
Users of film-forming products like masks and primers for better adherence.
People avoiding microbial fermentation products on principle.
People preferring low-hazard, non-comedogenic ingredients in daily routines.
Individuals preferring strictly plant-based or synthetic-free formulas.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1 across categories.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by regulatory bodies like CIR based on available data.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pullulan

What is pullulan made from?

Pullulan is produced by fermenting starch with the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans, yielding a natural polysaccharide.

Is pullulan safe for sensitive skin?

It carries a low EWG rating of 1 and shows no significant irritation in safety assessments.

What products commonly contain pullulan?

Found in sheet masks, makeup primers, pressed powders, and hair styling aids for binding and film effects.