Maltodextrin

Maltodextrin is a cosmetic ingredient used as an absorbent, binding agent. It appears in about 2% of cosmetic products in our 90,000+ product dataset. It is regulated in the EU (listed in a Cosmetics Regulation annex). PubMed carries 183 studies of its skin or topical use.

INCI nameMALTODEXTRIN
FunctionABSORBENT, BINDING, EMULSION STABILISING, FILM FORMING
CAS number9050-36-6
EC number232-940-4
Prevalence1,766 products (1.9% of dataset)
Most used inSkincare
EU statusRestricted (annex )
Scientific studies183 on PubMed (skin/cosmetic/topical)
Monthly searches74,000

Used in

Serums 16.5%General Moisturizers 9.2%Face Cleansers 8.3%Exfoliators 6.1%Toners 5.7%Wash Off Masks 4%

Frequently asked

What does Maltodextrin do in skincare?
Maltodextrin functions as an absorbent, binding agent in cosmetic formulas.
Is Maltodextrin allowed in cosmetics?
Yes, but it is regulated in the EU — it appears in a Cosmetics Regulation annex with usage conditions.
What products contain Maltodextrin?
It is most commonly found in Skincare products, especially serums (16.5% of its uses).

Manufacturers with experience using Maltodextrin

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