Article last updated: October 15, 2024
Agarose is a polysaccharide that is extracted from red seaweed, specifically from species within the Gracilaria and Gelidiaceae families. Chemically, agarose is composed of repeating units of agarobiose, which is a disaccharide made up of D-galactose and 3,6-anhydro-L-galactopyranose.
The use of agarose in cosmetics has a fascinating history. Originally, agarose was primarily utilized in scientific research, particularly in gel electrophoresis for DNA and protein separation. However, its unique properties soon caught the attention of the cosmetic industry. Its ability to form a gel-like substance when dissolved in water made it an attractive ingredient for various skincare and beauty products.
The process of making agarose involves harvesting the red seaweed, followed by a series of steps to extract the polysaccharide. The seaweed is first cleaned and then subjected to a hot water extraction process. The extract is then filtered to remove any impurities. After filtration, the solution is cooled, causing the agarose to gel. This gel is then dehydrated and ground into a fine powder, which can be easily incorporated into cosmetic formulations.
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized cosmetic benefits and uses of Agarose:
Agarose is known for its skin conditioning properties. This means it helps to maintain the skin in good condition. When used in cosmetic formulations, Agarose can help to soften and smooth the skin, making it feel more supple and hydrated. This is particularly beneficial in products like moisturizers and serums, where maintaining skin health and appearance is a primary goal.
Agarose also serves as a viscosity controlling agent. In simpler terms, it helps to manage the thickness or thinness of cosmetic products. This is crucial for ensuring that creams, lotions, and gels have the right consistency, making them easier to apply and more effective in delivering their active ingredients. By controlling viscosity, Agarose ensures that products are neither too runny nor too thick, providing a pleasant user experience.
Note: the listed benefits above are exclusively based on the officially recognized and defined functions of the ingredient, as documented by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI).
Agarose is generally considered safe for topical application in cosmetic products. However, as with any ingredient, there are potential side effects and considerations to keep in mind.
Regarding individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, data and research on the topical usage of agarose during pregnancy and breastfeeding are lacking. Therefore, it is recommended that they consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Side effects and adverse reactions from agarose are relatively uncommon. However, it is always a good practice to conduct a patch test before widespread usage to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
In terms of comedogenicity, agarose has a rating of 0 on a scale of 0 to 5, where 0 is totally non-comedogenic and 5 is highly comedogenic. This means that agarose is unlikely to clog pores, making it suitable for people prone to acne, blemishes, or breakouts.
