Cosmetic Breakthrough: Valida S+ Stabilizer Works Effectively Without Emulsifiers

In today’s cosmetics industry, where functional ingredients are rapidly evolving, cellulose derivatives sourced from natural resources are emerging as a new favorite in the R&D field. This shift is one of the key market-driven trends in cosmetic ingredient development.

Among these innovations is Valida S+ (INCI: Cellulose and Cellulose Gum), developed and launched by a certain company. As a new generation of highly fibrillated cellulose, it is penetrating skincare, color cosmetics, and sun care segments with its dual properties: “Multi-effect Stabilization + Green Sustainability.”

The core raw material of Valida S+ is extracted from wood fibers from certified forests. Unlike traditional microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) or Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), Valida S+ is not merely a simple chemical modification.

Its secret lies in being manufactured through a High Fibrillation Technology, which enables its superior performance. The principle of this proprietary technology is to fully open the cellulose structure, causing it to form a large number of nanoscale fiber bundles, thereby enabling its function as a stabilizer.

According to data disclosed by the manufacturer, Ultra Chemical, Valida S+ achieves a severalfold increase in effective surface area and significantly enhanced dispersibility, resulting in exceptionally strong stability characteristics.

Industry Expert Commentary: Dr. Lillian Chen, Senior Researcher at the International Cosmetic Ingredient Association (PCIA), points out: “The bio-based content and environmental footprint of stabilizers are becoming crucial in new generation formulations. Cellulose that is dual-certified, 100% wood-derived effectively addresses the controversies surrounding traditional synthetic stabilizers.”

One of the most exciting features of Valida S+ for formulators is its ability to efficiently stabilize suspension systems and Oil-in-Water (O/W) emulsions without the need for traditional emulsifiers or with extremely low emulsifier usage.

Conventional formulations rely on surfactants to lower interfacial tension for emulsion stabilization. Valida S+, however, works through its nanoscale fiber network: it builds a three-dimensional physical support structure within the aqueous phase, forming a dense “structural framework” barrier that prevents solid particles from settling or liquid oil droplets from coalescing (layer separation).

Reduced Sensitization: By minimizing the use of surfactants, it is particularly suited for transparent, light-feeling formulations with “surfactant-free” or “hypoallergenic” claims.

Rheological Data Superiority: Based on Ultra Chemical’s test data, Valida S+ exhibits excellent functionality at low dosages:

Minimal Viscosity Impact: Within the 1.0% to 2.0% usage range, the static viscosity of the system does not increase significantly.

High Thixotropy: Maintains high viscosity when at rest (preventing pigment sedimentation) but rapidly decreases viscosity when subjected to shear force (such as shaking or pumping).

Excellent Shear-thinning: This property makes it particularly suitable for packaging applications like sprays, pumps, or droppers.

Valida S+ also has other ingenious uses, being able to distribute uniformly across the skin surface. For instance, it can fill in fine skin lines, acting like a “physical filler,” thereby reducing the visibility of wrinkles and making the skin appear smoother. Simultaneously, it provides a certain degree of a cosmetic Soft-focus effect.

Formulator Perspective: Senior Cosmetics Formulator Mr. David Wu states: “We are looking for an ingredient that provides stability without sacrificing skin feel. The advantage of this type of ingredient is that it can deliver reliable physical stability with a minimal inclusion rate.”

In terms of formulation type, Valida S+ is widely applicable, compatible with aqueous systems, creams, and O/W emulsions, covering categories like color cosmetics, sunscreens, and hair care products.

This innovative ingredient is derived from a single source: 100% wood fiber, making it completely renewable and biodegradable with bio-based attributes.

In addition to the PEFC and FSC forest certifications for its supply chain, it has also secured COSMOS certification, aligning perfectly with the demand for clean formulations in the natural skincare market.

The product utilizes a gentle system, being free from traditional emulsifiers and synthetic stabilizers, which lowers the risk of potential irritation, making it especially suitable for the needs of individuals with sensitive skin.

Leecosmetic is a leading cosmetics manufacturer. It provides high – quality cosmetics products at very competitive prices and with low minimum order quantities.

We offer a range of services, such as private label cosmetics manufacturing, OEM/ODM manufacturing, and provide a complete product supply solution for small and medium – sized cosmetics brands.

As a fast – growing private label cosmetics manufacturer, Leecosmetic has been using raw materials from internationally renowned companies in a safe and efficient manner.

As a highly fibrillated, innovative cellulose ingredient, Valida S+ has not only scientifically resolved multiple technical challenges faced by formulators in stability, skin feel, and rheology, but has also successfully integrated sustainability, natural organic origin, and low-carbon environmental responsibility into its market value proposition.

The advent of Valida S+ serves as both a scientifically significant “New Structural Stabilizer” and a powerful support for the “Green Upgrade” narrative in marketing.