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Lubrizol unveils biodegradable thickener for next-generation sulfate-free cleansing products
The new ingredient is engineered to deliver strong viscosity building, excellent clarity, enhanced foam quality and superior fragrance tolerance
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By ICN Bureau | September 15, 2026
Lubrizol has introduced Glucamate Evolve thickener, a high-performing biodegradable thickener designed specifically for sulfate-free surfactant systems, as formulators face growing demand for gentle yet high-performance cleansing and hair care products.
The new ingredient is engineered to deliver strong viscosity building, excellent clarity, enhanced foam quality and superior fragrance tolerance—key attributes as brands seek to combine clean beauty principles with skin care-inspired benefits and elevated sensory experiences.
The cleansing category is rapidly evolving, with sulfate-free formulations gaining momentum, particularly in sensitive skin and baby care applications. At the same time, texture and foam remain critical product differentiators, with consumers increasingly drawn to rich gels, creams and gel-to-foam formats and creamy, abundant lather.
Lubrizol says Glucamate Evolve thickener was developed to tackle one of the key formulation challenges in sulfate-free systems: achieving effective thickening without sacrificing appearance or sensory performance.
The ingredient delivers viscosity efficiency while maintaining clarity and smooth rheology, enabling formulators to develop visually appealing products with a rich, honey-like flow.
Beyond aesthetics, Glucamate Evolve thickener is designed to elevate the cleansing experience by supporting richer foam and improving overall formulation feel. It is also compatible with silicones and supports efficient cationic deposition, giving formulators greater flexibility when developing multifunctional cleansing products.
