What it is
Agar is a carbohydrate gum composed mainly of agarose and agaropectin obtained from certain red algae. It is well known for its strong gel-forming ability and is used in cosmetics to thicken, gel, and stabilize water-based formulas. In sun care it can help create jelly-like or stick textures and contribute to a structured, cushiony feel.
Safety & warnings
Agar is a high-molecular-weight polysaccharide that is generally regarded as non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and well tolerated in topical products. It is not associated with comedogenicity.
Origin & sourcing
Natural; extracted from red seaweeds (notably species of Gelidium and Gracilaria) by hot-water extraction and purification.
History
Agar has a long history of use as a gelling material in food and laboratory applications and has been adapted into cosmetics as a plant-derived texturizer.
Questions everyone asks
What does agar do in a sunscreen?
It thickens and gels the water phase, helping create jelly-like or structured textures.
Where does agar come from?
It is a polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed and is a plant-derived gelling agent.