Pullulan
Pullulan is a gentle, plant-derived polysaccharide used in skincare and makeup as a natural film-former, thickener and moisture-binding ingredient. It creates a smooth, breathable layer on the skin or hair, helping products adhere better while delivering a soft-focus, hydrated finish. You'll often find it in sheet masks, serums, lip products and clean beauty formulas.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare Pullulan works by forming a flexible, oxygen-permeable film on the surface of the skin or hair. This invisible veil helps lock in moisture, improves product texture and gives a smooth, even appearance without clogging pores. It also acts as a natural thickener and stabiliser, enhancing the feel and performance of serums, creams, masks and colour cosmetics.
Key benefits
- Forms a breathable protective film
- Helps retain moisture on the skin
- Improves product texture and spreadability
- Gives a soft-focus, smooth appearance
- Enhances adhesion of makeup and masks
- Provides a lightweight, non-greasy feel
Best for
dry skin, dehydrated skin, sensitive skin, mature skin, all skin types
Where it comes from
Pullulan is a natural polysaccharide produced through fermentation of starch by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. It is typically derived from plant-based sources such as tapioca or corn.
Products with Pullulan
Not every product on UK Lips lists a full ingredient breakdown — so there may be many more formulas that contain Pullulan than we can show here. These are the comparisons where we’ve confirmed it in the listed ingredients.