Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
A cosmetic ingredient used as antistatic, binding, emulsion stabilising in skincare, haircare, and personal-care products sold in the European Union.
What is it?
Cellulose, 2-hydroxypropyl methyl ether
What does it do?
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is listed in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with the following declared functions:
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Antistatic
reduces static electricity, mostly in hair products to keep strands smooth and manageable
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Binding
holds the components of a formulation together, especially in pressed powders and compact makeup
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Emulsion stabilising
stabilises emulsions of oil and water, preventing separation over time
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Film forming
forms a thin continuous film on skin, hair, or nails — used in long-wear makeup, sunscreens, and hairsprays
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Surfactant - cleansing
surfactant whose primary cosmetic role is cleansing — the active workhorse in soaps, shampoos, and body washes
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Viscosity controlling
adjusts the thickness or flow of a formulation
EU regulatory status
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the European Union under Regulation 1223/2009. It is not subject to a specific Annex restriction at the time of writing.
Frequently asked questions
What is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose?
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is a cosmetic ingredient catalogued in the EU CosIng database. Cellulose, 2-hydroxypropyl methyl ether
Is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose allowed in cosmetics in the EU?
Yes. Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is allowed for use in cosmetic products in the EU under Regulation 1223/2009.
What does Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose do in cosmetic products?
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is declared in the EU cosmetic ingredient inventory with these functions: antistatic, binding, emulsion stabilising, film forming, surfactant - cleansing, viscosity controlling.
What is the CAS number of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose?
The CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number for Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is 9004-65-3.
Related ingredients
Source: EU CosIng database (European Commission). This page is derived from public-sector information published by the European Commission. · Last updated: 15/10/2010