What is Sclerotium Gum?

Sclerotium Gum is a natural thickener created through fermentation. It comes as a white to light beige powder and transforms water into a soft, elastic gel.

The scent is neutral. The gel feels smooth and non-sticky and gives the skin a supple, hydrated finish. The natural sugar chains form a thin layer that retains moisture.

A versatile workhorse for DIY: create clear gels and serums, airy creams, and thicken shampoos or shower gel without hassle.

What are the benefits of Sclerotium Gum?

Forms beautifully clear gels
The powder dissolves in water and builds a stable network of sugar chains. This creates transparent gels that stay neatly in place.

Gentle on the skin
The glucans create a light layer on the skin that retains moisture. This reduces dryness and provides a comfortable, supple feeling.

Works with acids and salts
Sclerotium Gum remains stable in a wide pH range (approximately 2.5–12) and can withstand salts. Ideal for AHA toners, vitamin C formulas and mineral sprays.

Stabilizes emulsions
A low dosage thickens the water phase, allowing oil and water to stay better mixed. This prevents separation and keeps the texture consistent.

Makes creams lighter
By strengthening the water phase, less oil is needed. Result: a lotion-like cream that absorbs quickly and feels less greasy.

Spreads beautifully
The gel structure of the sugar chains provides slip on the skin, making formulas easy to distribute and leaving a silky-soft feeling. Works great in gels, creams and hair products.

Easy to use
Hydrates from room temperature and gel formation starts with gentle stirring. Let the gel stand overnight for extra clarity.

How do you use Sclerotium Gum?

Gels: Use 0.8–2% in the water phase at 20–60 °C. Stir for 15–45 minutes and let rest covered for 24 hours for a clear gel.

Creams and lotions: Add 0.2–0.5% to the water phase to stabilize and make the texture lighter.

Thickening: Use 0.5–1.5% in the water phase for extra body in gels, cleansers or shampoos.

pH and actives: Works between pH 2.5–12 and can withstand salts. Suitable in formulas with acids or minerals.

Mixing tip: Sprinkle the powder slowly into water while stirring or first mix with a little glycerin to prevent clumping. Avoid a stick blender if you don't want air bubbles.

What makes Sclerotium Gum so special?

Sclerotium Gum remains stable in both acidic and salty formulas and provides a glossy, elastic gel without stringing, keeping even challenging DIYs like AHA toners and light serums firm and clear.