• Non-ionic, cellulose-derived thickener and stabilizer
• Creates transparent, non-sticky gels and serums
• Improves spreadability and stability of emulsions
• Safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin
• Excellent film-forming agent for masks and peel-offs

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a non-ionic, water-soluble cellulose ether derived from plant fibers. It’s used in cosmetic formulations to increase viscosity, stabilize emulsions, and form gels. HPMC is gentle, stable over a wide pH range, and imparts a silky feel to the skin. It's perfect for clear gels, creams, serums, sheet mask bases, and suspensions. Due to its film-forming ability, HPMC is also used in peel-off masks, makeup removers, and hair styling products.

INCI Name: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

CAS Number: 9004-65-3

Solubility: Water-soluble (cold processing preferred)

Add Phase: Disperse in cold water, then heat to activate

pH Stability: 3.0 – 10.0

Processing Temperature: Hydrates between 60–90°C (depending on grade)

Appearance: Fine white to off-white powder

Odor: Odorless

Molecular Formula: C₁₂H₂₀O₁₀ (generalized repeating unit)

Molecular Weight: Variable (depends on grade)

Flash Point: > 200°C

Density: ~1.3 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Cellulose polymer / Rheology modifier

Functional Groups: Ether, hydroxyl (-OH), methyl

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Thickening, film-forming, stabilizing, gelling

• Usage Rate: 0.1% – 2.0% depending on thickness required
• Phase: Disperse in cold water first, hydrate with heat
• Ideal For: Serums, Gels, Creams, Peel-Off Masks, Lotions, Hair Styling Gels

✨ Always pre-wet HPMC powder in glycerin or propanediol before adding it to water — this prevents clumping and ensures smooth dispersion. Once dispersed, gently heat to 60–70°C to fully hydrate and activate its thickening power. Ideal for building clear gel bases for serums, peel-off masks, and hydrating toners!

✔️ Safe for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone

✔️ Non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and stable under most conditions

1. Clear Hydrating Gel

Use 1% HPMC with glycerin and sodium PCA to build a transparent gel base that can hold botanical extracts or active ingredients.

2. DIY Peel-Off Mask Base

Blend 1.5% HPMC with activated charcoal, rose water, and aloe vera for a peel-off mask with firm yet flexible texture.

3. Lightweight Lotion Emulsion

Add 0.3% HPMC to stabilize a water-based lotion for a silky skin finish and improved shelf stability.

4. Styling Hair Gel

Formulate a conditioning hair gel with HPMC, panthenol, and hydrolyzed proteins for flexible hold and shine.

5. Sheet Mask Serum Base

Use HPMC to thicken serums for sheet masks, allowing uniform saturation and easy absorption.

Evaluated based on thickening power, stability contribution, and product type flexibility.

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Used as a base-building gel in clear or actives-based serums.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Supports emulsification and gives texture control.



Toners
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Can add light viscosity for hydrating or mist-style toners.



Face Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Ideal for peel-off, clay, or gel-based face masks.



Cleansers
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Enhances thickness and texture in gel cleansers.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds viscosity and slip to hydrating hair treatments.



Deodorants
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Useful in natural roll-on or gel deodorant formulas.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Occasionally used for soft gel-type eye serums.



Shampoos
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Helps improve flow and viscosity in sulfate-free shampoos.



Soaps
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not compatible with hot/cold process soaps.



Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Used to increase texture and glide in emulsions.



Lip Balms
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Incompatible with oil-only lip balm formulations.



Body Butters
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Use only in emulsified body butters for viscosity control.

Q1: Can I dissolve HPMC directly in hot water?

A1: No. First disperse in cold water to avoid clumping, then heat gently (60–70°C) to activate hydration.

Q2: Is it safe for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

A2: Yes, it’s non-irritating, non-comedogenic, and suitable for all skin types.

Q3: Does it require a preservative?

A3: HPMC is not self-preserving. When used in water-based systems, a full preservative system is needed.

Q4: Can it be used in sprays or mists?

A4: At very low percentages (0.1–0.3%), yes. It gives a slight thickness without clogging spray pumps.