INCI Name
Inulin
Ingredient Origin
• Natural / plant-derived
• Typically extracted from chicory root
• Purified and spray-dried for cosmetic use
Purity / Grade
• Cosmetic Grade
• White to off-white free-flowing powder
• Odourless to very mild characteristic odour
• Non-GMO (grade-dependent)
BENEFITS & USES
Key Benefits
• Helps improve skin hydration and softness
• Provides smooth, non-sticky skin feel
• Supports scalp and hair comfort
• Enhances the mildness of surfactant-based systems
• Suitable for natural, vegan, and clean beauty formulations
Typical Applications
Skincare Products: Widely used in moisturising lotions, creams, and serums to provide hydration and conditioning benefits while improving product texture and feel.
Hair Care Products: Used in shampoos and conditioners to enhance hair softness and shine, while providing moisture retention;
Cosmetic Products: Applied in foundations and concealers to improve product texture and stability, ensuring longer-lasting and more even makeup application
Special Care Products: Utilised in products designed for sensitive and damaged skin to aid in barrier repair and enhance skin tolerance.
HOW IT WORKS
Inulin acts as a moisture-binding ingredient that helps retain hydration on skin and hair. It improves product feel, enhances softness, and reduces dryness, especially in cleansing formulations, making products gentler and more comfortable to use.
CONCENTRATION & SOLUBILITY
Recommended Usage Levels
• 0.5–3% in skincare emulsions and serums
• 0.2–2% in shampoos and cleansers
• Up to 5% in masks and intensive treatments
Solubility Details
• Water-soluble
• Disperses best in warm water
• Insoluble in oils
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
• Add to the water phase with gentle heating (40–60 °C)
• Ensure complete dissolution before emulsification
• Compatible with humectants, surfactants, botanical extracts, and preservatives
• Suitable for pH range 5.0 - 7.0
HOW TO USE
• Pre-dissolve in water before adding to formulation
• Use accurate weighing for consistent performance
• Evaluate texture and skin feel in the final product
SAFETY & REGULATORY INFORMATION
• Cosmetic ingredient for external use only
• Non-therapeutic, non-medical claims
• Suitable for leave-on and rinse-off products
• Compliant with Indian cosmetic regulations (CDSCO)
STORAGE & SHELF LIFE
• Store in a cool, dry place
• Keep container tightly sealed
• Protect from moisture
• Shelf life: 24 -36 months