Starch

Starch is a complex carbohydrate made up of many glucose molecules. It represents a reserve of energy for the plants which contain it but also for us, the consumers. In food and cosmetics, starch is a thickener and viscosity enhancer, useful to make a paste. Starch has a significant absorbent power to fight against humidity and sweat. This is why it is often used in the composition of natural deodorants. The thinner the particle size, the more the product absorbs water and makes the product thicker. For instance, rice starch is thinner than corn starch so you need less rice starch than corn starch for the same result. These absorbent properties give the starch a mattifying power which can be appreciated in makeup compositions with a matt effect. As a powder, starch fits in the small hollows of the skin like fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. Therefore, it minimizes their appearance. This property is beneficial for anti-wrinkles cosmetics, serums that smooth the skin, or lipsticks to hide the fine lines of the lips.

Featured in Ylang Ylang and Patchouli deodorant, Lemongrass, and Vetiver deodorant