Low ConcernVegan

Agar

Agar-agar / Agarose mixture

Safety Notes

Polysaccharide from red algae; gelling agent; biodegradable; COSMOS-approved; natural; low sensitization risk

Function & Common Use

Function

Viscosity Agent / Gelling Agent

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Agar safe to use in skincare?

Agar has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Polysaccharide from red algae; gelling agent; biodegradable; COSMOS-approved; natural; low sensitization risk

Is Agar allowed in India?

Agar is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Agar used for in cosmetics?

Agar functions as: Viscosity Agent / Gelling Agent. It is commonly found in: Natural/organic gels masks thickeners.

TCS Assessment

Low Concern

Data Confidence

High

Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)

Permitted

US FDA

Permitted

Korea (MFDS)

Permitted

Australia (TGA)

Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made

Canada (NHPID)

Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS9002-18-0

EC232-658-1

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