Purified food-grade thickener and bulking agent. In cosmetics provides body to the texture and stabilizes emulsions.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Inert and safe bulking agent. No irritation or allergy.
Microcrystalline Cellulose (MCC) is a purified, partially hydrolyzed polysaccharide derived from wood cellulose. In pharmaceuticals – the main tablet filler. In cosmetics – thickener, stabilizer, mild abrasive. Mechanism. Forms stable suspensions in aqueous and emulsion formulas, provides texture and uniformity. In scrubs it works as a gentle mechanical abrasive, suitable for sensitive skin. Where applied. Scrubs, peels, peel-off masks, creams, foundations. Concentration 0.5–10%. An alternative to microplastic abrasives, banned in the EU since 2024 in rinse-off products. Evidence base. No clinical RCTs required – a functional filler. CIR confirmed safety. Safety. Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, non-irritating. Pregnancy and lactation – topically safe. Environmental context. Since 2024 EU Regulation 2023/2055 bans microplastic particles in rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic products. Microcrystalline cellulose is a natural biodegradable alternative.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora 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.
Microcrystalline Cellulose is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Microcrystalline Cellulose suits: normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive.
Purified food-grade thickener and bulking agent.
The INCI name is Microcrystalline Cellulose. It may also appear as: MCC, E460.
Published: · updated: