Algin

Algin is a cosmetic ingredient used as a binding, fragrance agent. It appears in about 1% of cosmetic products in our 90,000+ product dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 2,435 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI nameALGIN
FunctionBINDING, FRAGRANCE, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING
CAS number9005-38-3 / 57606-04-9
Prevalence477 products (0.51% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies2,435 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches1,600

Used in

Wash Off Masks 18.7%Serums 17.6%General Moisturizers 7.8%Sheet Masks 7.8%Eye Masks 6.3%Face Cleansers 6.1%

Frequently asked

What does Algin do in skincare?
Algin functions as a binding, fragrance agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is Algin allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain Algin?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially wash off masks (18.7% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using Algin

Match with vetted US contract manufacturers that have hands-on experience formulating with this ingredient.