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Moumoujus

METHYLCELLULOSE.

Valuable CAS 9004-67-5 / BINDING, EMULSION STABILISING, LIGHT STABILIZER, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Methylcellulose is a versatile, plant-derived polymer primarily valued in skincare for its ability to create a moisturizing film on the skin, effectively preventing transepidermal water loss. It also functions as an efficient thickener and stabilizer, significantly improving the texture, viscosity, and overall stability of cosmetic formulations.

Summary

Viscosity controlling Stabilizing Binding Emulsion stabilising Moisturizing film former Thickener Suspending agent Texture enhancer Spreadability improver Antioxidant (potential) Anti-pollution agent (potential) Surfactant (potential)

Science

Mechanism of Action

On the skin surface, Methylcellulose forms a breathable, moisturizing film that actively absorbs and retains water, thereby enhancing hydration and preventing dryness. Within formulations, it acts as a highly efficient rheology modifier, increasing product viscosity, improving spreadability, and preventing the stratification or separation of diverse ingredients. It contributes to a smoother, more comfortable skin feel and may offer some incidental antioxidant and anti-pollution benefits, in addition to potential surfactant properties.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.2–1%
Optimal

0.2%

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

Methylcellulose functions as a critical formulation aid rather than an active ingredient requiring dusting at specific low percentages for direct skin efficacy. Its functional properties are observed within its established use concentrations for texture and stability.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 5 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Aqueous solutions of Methylcellulose are stable at room temperature. It forms a clear gel when dissolved in cold water and exhibits a unique thermal gelation property, solidifying reversibly upon heating to approximately 50 °C. The optimal pH range for a 1% colloidal solution is 5.0 to 8.0.

Conflicts

  • Aminacrine hydrochloride
  • Chlorocresol
  • Mercuric chloride
  • Phenol
  • Resorcinol
  • Tannic acid
  • Silver nitrate
  • Cetylpyridinium chloride
  • p-Hydroxybenzoic acid
  • p-Aminobenzoic acid
  • Methylparaben
  • Propylparaben
  • Butylparaben

Safety

Safety Profile

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

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that Methylcellulose is safe for use in cosmetic ingredients. Dermal irritation studies, including concentrations up to 100%, revealed it to be nonirritating to mildly irritating. It is also confirmed as non-sensitizing and non-photosensitizing.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Methylcellulose is a valuable ingredient, safely enhancing product texture, stability, and moisturization across a wide range of precision skincare formulations, demonstrating excellent skin compatibility.

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