murphyHydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Hypromellose
Synthetic
Cleanser
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from cellulose, a naturally occurring polymer found in plant cell walls, particularly wood pulp and cotton. Produced through chemical modification of cellulose via hydroxypropylation and methylation reactions using propylene oxide and methyl chloride.
Cellulose, 2-hydroxypropyl methyl ether
CAS #
9004-65-3
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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
Reduces Static
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Creates Protective Barrier
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Wound Healing
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.
EWG
1
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not Phototoxic (CIR Panel on the ingredient group)
CIR Panel statement covering this group of ingredients; not tested individually (CIR 508)
Not a Sensitizer
3 studies / 3 not sensitizing (CIR 179)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
2 studies / 1 irritating / 1 not irritating / reactions slight (CIR 179 and 508)
Mixed Skin Irritation Results
2 studies / 2 mixed (CIR 179 and 508)
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR