Hydroxypropylcellulose: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 27, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Hydroxypropylcellulose?

Hydroxypropylcellulose is a plant derived polymer made by modifying natural cellulose from sources like wood pulp or cotton. During production the cellulose is treated with an alkaline solution then reacted with propylene oxide, which substitutes some of the hydroxyl groups and gives the material its hydroxypropyl side chains. The result is a white water soluble powder that swells into a clear gel when mixed with water or other liquids.

The ingredient first appeared in the mid 1900s in pharmaceutical products where it helped control tablet disintegration and eye drop viscosity. Its film forming and thickening abilities soon made it attractive to cosmetic chemists who needed a gentle multifunctional helper for creams and makeup. Today it is purified to cosmetic grade through repeated washing and drying so that no reactive chemicals remain.

You will most often find hydroxypropylcellulose in facial moisturizers, anti aging serums, sheet masks, peel off masks, hair styling gels, sunscreens, liquid foundations, mascaras and even some cleansing wipes. It is favored because it is compatible with both water based and water plus oil formulas and it feels smooth on skin.

Hydroxypropylcellulose’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This versatile ingredient earns its place on an ingredient list by performing several helpful jobs at once.

  • Binding – keeps powdered or granular ingredients stuck together so pressed powders stay intact and exfoliating scrubs do not separate
  • Emulsion stabilising – prevents water and oil phases from breaking apart which keeps creams and lotions smooth over time
  • Film forming – dries to a thin flexible layer that locks in moisture, boosts the staying power of makeup and delivers a temporary skin tightening effect
  • Emulsifying – helps mix small amounts of oil into mostly water based formulas or vice versa improving texture and efficacy
  • Viscosity controlling – thickens watery solutions so toners feel silky, serums do not run off the face and hair gels have the right hold

Who Can Use Hydroxypropylcellulose

Because it is non reactive, fragrance free and water soluble, hydroxypropylcellulose suits nearly every skin type including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. It has a low molecular weight and forms a breathable film so it rarely traps oil or causes congestion, making it a comfortable choice for acne prone users as well. People with a known allergy to cellulose derivatives should avoid it but this is uncommon.

The polymer is produced from plant cellulose with no animal derived processing aids, so it is generally considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

Current safety data shows no reproductive toxicity, therefore products containing hydroxypropylcellulose are viewed as safe for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should still confirm product choices with a healthcare professional.

Hydroxypropylcellulose does not absorb UV light or increase skin sensitivity to the sun. It plays nicely with most actives and preservatives, has no known hormonal activity and does not interfere with typical topical medications.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to any cosmetic ingredient can differ. The effects listed below are possible but unlikely when the ingredient is used at normal cosmetic levels and formulated correctly.

  • Mild redness or irritation
  • Transient itching or stinging on very sensitive skin
  • Watery eyes or slight burning if product migrates into the eye area
  • Rare allergic contact dermatitis in people sensitive to cellulose ethers
  • Temporary skin tightness or flaking if a thick film is left on very dry skin
  • Clogged pores in extremely acne prone skin if product is not fully removed

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Hydroxypropylcellulose is considered non comedogenic because it is a water soluble polymer that does not leave behind greasy residues or heavy occlusive films. Once it dries it forms a light breathable layer that rinses away easily with normal cleansing, so it is unlikely to trap sebum or debris inside pores.

This makes the ingredient suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

As with any film former extremely high use levels or pairing it with very rich oils could still create a heavier feel, but this is rare in well balanced formulations.

Summary

Hydroxypropylcellulose thickens watery products, stabilises emulsions, binds loose particles, creates flexible moisture locking films and keeps formulas smooth by controlling viscosity. It does these jobs by swelling in water, increasing solution thickness then drying to a clear cohesive network that holds other ingredients in place.

While it is not a buzzword ingredient it appears in a wide range of everyday skincare and makeup because chemists value its reliability and gentle nature.

Safety data shows it to be low risk for irritation or allergies and it carries a comedogenic rating of 0, making it a safe bet for most skin types. As with any new product it is wise to do a quick patch test before full use just to be sure your skin agrees.

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