KELCO Care

KELCO-care is a modern biopolymer obtained through fermentation by microorganisms of the genus Sphingomonas. It appears on the INCI list as Sphingomonas Ferment Extract. It is not a conventional active ingredient whose main role is to directly target wrinkles, pigmentation or acne. Its value lies primarily in creating a stable, pleasant and functional texture in cosmetic products.

In formulations, it helps thicken the water phase and keep pigments, powders, oil droplets and other insoluble ingredients evenly dispersed. This supports the stability of serums, emulsions, gels, sunscreens and products with a higher content of minerals or active ingredients. The manufacturer describes KELCO-care diutan gum as a water-soluble fermentation-derived biopolymer developed specifically for cosmetics and personal care products. 

One of its important properties is its pseudoplastic, or “shear-thinning”, behaviour. A product can remain sufficiently thick and stable in its packaging, yet its structure loosens as it is spread, making it easier to apply and distribute evenly over the skin. Research into the rheological properties of aqueous diutan gum solutions has shown a marked ability to modify viscosity and form a structured network in an aqueous environment. 

A study focusing on emulsions also found that, at a suitable concentration, diutan gum promoted gel-like rheological properties and improved the physical stability of the emulsion. This effect is particularly important in products where phase separation or the settling of particles needs to be limited. 

In a finished cosmetic product, KELCO-care contributes to a smooth, even and elegant texture. It helps the product dispense easily, stay in place without running, spread pleasantly and remain stable during use. Its benefit to the skin is therefore mainly indirect: it enables the creation of a high-quality formulation in which active ingredients are evenly dispersed and the product is comfortable to apply.