Maltodextrin

Irritancy: unknownComedogenicity: unknownAbsorbent

The details

Maltodextrin is a plant-derived carbohydrate made by breaking down starch (usually from corn, potato, or rice). In cosmetic formulas, it's a multitasking absorbent, emulsion stabilizer, and skin conditioner. This ingredient is mostly used to stabilize emulsions and improve the powdery, non-greasy feel of products (like dry shampoos). Safety-wise, this ingredient is pretty solid; it's even recognized as a food additive. Both animal and clinical studies found no adverse effects at the levels used in cosmetics. Industry data shows this ingredient is used up to 45.7% in spray products and up to 33% in powder products.