Ingredient dictionary

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose

Also listed as: Hypromellose, HPMC

A plant-derived cellulose that has been modified to dissolve in water. It mainly thickens, binds and helps films form on the skin or hair. It is on the label of 17 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

What Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose does

Thickens water-based formulas and gels
Helps ingredients stay evenly mixed
Forms a light, flexible film on skin

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose starts with cellulose, the fiber that makes up plant cell walls. It is usually sourced from wood pulp or cotton. Chemists treat the cellulose with an alkaline solution, then add small chemical groups, hydroxypropyl and methyl, along its chain. These added groups make the molecule dissolve in water, which plain cellulose does not do.

Formulators use it mainly as a thickener and stabilizer. It builds body in lotions and washes without making them greasy. In sunscreens, it helps keep the formula evenly mixed and can help form a thin, flexible film on the skin. The feel is smooth and slightly slippery rather than heavy.

Good for

Suits people who like smooth, lightweight body lotions, washes and sunscreens. It is generally well tolerated by most skin types.

Frequently asked questions

Is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose safe for sensitive skin?

It is generally well tolerated and rarely causes irritation, but anyone with sensitive skin should patch test new products. Patch testing means applying a small amount to a patch of skin and waiting a day or two before using it more widely.

Is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose the same as hypromellose?

Yes. Hypromellose is the pharmaceutical name for the same material, so you may see it on medicine labels too. HPMC is a common short form. On cosmetic labels, the INCI name, short for International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients, is the standard name.