Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

HYDROXYPROPYL METHYLCELLULOSE ACETATE/SUCCINATE.

Valuable CAS 71138-97-1 / FILM FORMING

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Acetate/Succinate (HPMCAS) is a versatile cellulose derivative that forms a protective film on the skin, aiding in moisture retention and preventing dehydration. Beyond its skin benefits, it significantly contributes to formulation integrity by acting as an effective thickening agent and stabilizer in cosmetic products.

Summary

Film-forming Moisture retention Thickening Stabilizing

Science

Mechanism of Action

HPMCAS functions primarily as a film-forming agent, creating a breathable barrier on the skin's surface to minimize transepidermal water loss. Its hydrophilic groups actively engage in hydrogen bonding with water molecules, thereby enhancing and maintaining skin hydration. Furthermore, it serves a dual role in formulation, effectively thickening and stabilizing cosmetic emulsions and suspensions.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
PH-dependent aqueous solubility, also soluble in certain organic solvents
Optimal pH 5.5 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

HPMCAS is a pH-sensitive polymer; it is insoluble in acidic conditions (typically below pH 5) but swells and dissolves in neutral to slightly alkaline environments, specifically between pH 5.5 and 7.5, mirroring physiological intestinal pH. Different grades exist with specific dissolution pH thresholds. It is susceptible to hydrolysis under harsh processing conditions or prolonged exposure to strong bases (e.g., 1 mol/L sodium hydroxide), which can yield succinic acid and acetic acid.

Conflicts

  • strong acids
  • strong bases
  • oxidizing agents
  • sustained elevated humidity
  • active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) with hydroxyl groups (under harsh processing/high heat, due to potential ester bond formation from hydrolysis products)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
100%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Acetate/Succinate and related cellulose derivatives are safe for cosmetic use, even at concentrations up to 100%. Studies indicate these ingredients are practically non-toxic, demonstrate minimal to no skin irritation, and are minimally irritating to the eyes. The U.S. FDA also grants Hypromellose Acetate Succinate Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for various oral pharmaceutical applications, utilizing concentrations from 5% to 80%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Acetate/Succinate is a valuable ingredient, prized for its ability to form a hydrating protective film on the skin and its significant contributions to the stability and texture of cosmetic formulations.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…