Hydroxypropyl Guar
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Guar gum hydroxypropyl derivative
Synthetic
Cleanser
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
Guar gum, 2-hydroxypropyl ether, depolymd.
CAS #
68442-94-4, 39421-75-5
Form
Powder
Functions
Antistatic
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
Moisturizing
Improves Elasticity
Traditional Use
Derived from guar gum, a legume plant used in traditional Indian cuisine for centuries. The hydroxypropyl derivative was chemically modified in the 20th century to improve stability and thickening properties in cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed2 reviews →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR