murphyCellulose Acetate Propionate Carboxylate
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Cellulose Ester, Modified Cellulose
Synthetic
Cleanser
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Not Clean
OriginDerived from cellulose, a structural polysaccharide extracted from plant cell walls, typically from wood pulp or cotton. Synthesized through esterification of cellulose with propionic and acetic anhydrides, followed by carboxylation.
Cellulose, acetates, propanoates, reaction products with ozone
CAS #
125139-16-4
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Cleansing
Makes oil and water mix so dirt, makeup, and sunscreen can actually be washed away. The reason your face wash foams.
Viscosity Controlling
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Creates Protective Barrier
Cleansing Surfactant
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Fights Bacteria
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed0 reviews
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR