Thickener

Pullulan

The polysaccharide from black mold Aureobasidium pullulans is the only natural polymer that forms ultra-thin transparent edible films. Instant lifting effect upon drying. In cosmetics, it is the basis for "instant lift" masks and premium serums with visible skin tightening.

Instant liftingFilm-formerNaturalanti-aging

✓ Safe

Comedogenic Rating

0/5

Irritation Potential

0/5

What is it?

Pullulan consists of maltotriose units connected by α-1,6-glycosidic bonds. Water-soluble, transparent, odorless, and tasteless. Unique property: upon drying, it forms ultra-thin (< 1 μm), transparent, flexible films with exceptionally high mechanical strength. INCI: Pullulan. Primary industrial use: edible coatings for pills and food products. In cosmetics: instant tightening/lifting effect upon film drying on the skin. Used in concentrations of 1–5%.

"Instant lift" masks and serums, eye-pad masks, tight-and-lift formulas. Short-term visible lifting effect for runway products and photo sessions.

Key Benefits

✦

Instant mechanical lifting — a film that tightens the skin

Upon application, pullulan spreads across the skin surface. Upon drying (1–2 minutes), it forms a thin transparent film that mechanically tightens and firms the skin. Effect: reduction in the visibility of wrinkles and sagging due to the physical tension of the film. Short-term (4–6 hours) but visible. Used in eye patch masks for a temporary "lift" of the lower eyelid.

◈

Natural transparent film-former without synthetic silicones

Polysilicone or acrylates-based film-formers provide a similar effect but have a synthetic origin. Pullulan is 100% natural (microbial), certified as COSMOS-approved. The transparent film has no white residue or shine. An alternative for "clean beauty" lifting products.

✧

Barrier function and moisture retention

The pullulan film reduces TEWL (transepidermal water loss) by up to 20% after a single application. For dehydrated or atopic skin — beneficial "physical" barrier support in addition to moisturizing actives in the formula. Compatible with all major moisturizers (HA, glycerin) — synergistic action.

Suitable for

For mature skinFor skin with loss of elasticityFor a quick effect before events

Main Actions

✓ Instant lifting (mechanical film)✓ Reduction of TEWL✓ Transparent film-former

Instant lift vs long-term anti-aging

Pullulan (instant) + peptides (4–8 weeks) + retinol (3–6 months) = comprehensive anti-aging strategy. Pullulan provides an immediately visible effect (important for marketing and consumer experience), while peptides and retinol build long-term results. That’s why "Lift and Firm" type products usually contain both pullulan and peptides. The former gives an immediate "wow effect," while the latter brings real changes over months.

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