Binders as ingredients in cosmetics provide the desired cohesion of powdery, powdery or creamy products. For example, they create the desired structure and consistency of a toothpaste. They prevent the separation of solids and liquid components. Usually the quantities used are less than 2% of the total mass.
Frequently used are hydrophilic colloids (e.g. alginates) as well as carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, xanthan gum.