murphyNitrocellulose
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Cellulose Nitrate, Pyroxylin, Gun Cotton
Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
OriginDerived from cellulose, a polysaccharide extracted from plant fibers like wood pulp and cotton. Produced through nitration of cellulose using nitric acid, creating an ester compound.
Cellulose, nitrate
CAS #
9004-70-0
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Creates Protective Barrier
Dispersing Non Surfactant
Fights Bacteria
Creates protective layer
Evenly distributes particles
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 an Eye Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 631)
Not a Skin Irritant
3 studies / 3 not irritating / plus 1 case report (CIR 631)
Not a Sensitizer
2 studies / 2 not sensitizing / plus 2 case reports (CIR 631)
Concentration Guide
Leave-on13–41%
Rinse-off0.04–11%
0%50%100%
CIR reported use · report published 2016
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR