Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

HPMC; cellulose ether

Safety Notes

Cellulose derivative; widely used in eye area products; well tolerated

Function & Common Use

Function

Viscosity controlling / Film forming

Category

Thickener / Gelling Agent

Common In

Mascara, serums, cleansers

Origin

Plant (cellulose)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose safe to use in skincare?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Cellulose derivative; widely used in eye area products; well tolerated

Is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose allowed in India?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose used for in cosmetics?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose functions as: Viscosity controlling / Film forming. It is commonly found in: Mascara, serums, cleansers.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CAS9004-65-3

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