Hydroxypropylcellulose
A plant polymer thickener. It stabilizes the formula and gives a smooth gel texture. Well tolerated.
Supporting ingredient
It gives a product its texture, stability or shelf life. It has no claimed effect on the skin, so an efficacy tier does not apply. What is known about its safety is below
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Hydroxypropylcellulose is a plant-derived polymer made from cellulose, listed in INCI under the same name. Its job is to thicken the formula, stabilize it and give it a smooth, pleasant gel texture. It shows up in serums, gels and masks. This is a functional texture component, not a skincare active. It does not hydrate or renew skin through its own mechanism; it sets the product's consistency and helps it spread evenly. It fills that role reliably. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is high, with low irritation and allergy potential, and it suits sensitive skin. It is a well-known thickener that causes no reaction in the vast majority of people.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hydroxypropylcellulose safe during pregnancy?
Hydroxypropylcellulose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Hydroxypropylcellulose for?
Hydroxypropylcellulose suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Hydroxypropylcellulose and what does it do in cosmetics?
A plant polymer thickener.
What's the INCI name for Hydroxypropylcellulose?
The INCI name is Hydroxypropylcellulose.
See Hydroxypropylcellulose in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Other functional ingredients
Hydroxystearic Acid, i-Menthol, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Sodium Carbomer, VP/VA Copolymer, Red 17 (CI 26100)
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