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Pullulan

What Pullulan is & what it does

A starch-derived polymer that forms a smooth, tightening film, giving a temporary firming feel and improving the wear of the formula. It also helps stabilize.

What is Pullulan and what does it do in sunscreen?

Pullulan is a starch-derived polymer that forms a smooth, thin film as it dries. In sunscreen it gives a temporary tightening or firming sensation on the skin and helps improve the wear and feel of the formula. It also contributes to texture and helps stabilize the product.

Is Pullulan safe?

Yes, for the vast majority of people. Pullulan is a polysaccharide produced by fermentation and has a long history of use in both cosmetics and food. It sits on the surface as a film former and is considered a low-risk, well-tolerated ingredient.

Does Pullulan clog pores?

Generally no. It is a water-soluble film-forming sugar polymer, not an oil or wax, so it is not a typical pore-clogging ingredient. The film it leaves sits lightly on the surface and rinses away with normal cleansing.

Is Pullulan natural?

It is naturally derived. Pullulan is made by fermenting starch with a microorganism, so it comes from a natural raw material through a biological process rather than heavy chemical synthesis. That is why it is often featured in products marketed as plant-based or naturally sourced.

What else is Pullulan called?

On a label it appears simply as Pullulan, which is both its common and INCI name. You may see it described in marketing as a natural tightening or instant-firming polymer, but the ingredient itself is the same.

Sunscreens with Pullulan

We rate 127 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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