Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a nonionic polymer derived from natural cellulose. Due to its excellent safety, stability, and multifunctional properties, HPMC has become a key excipient commonly used in the daily chemical industry, widely used in products such as shampoo, shower gel, skincare, toothpaste, and makeup. It not only improves the appearance and texture of products but also enhances the user experience, making it an irreplaceable player.
1. Key Properties of HPMC
HPMC is a water-soluble cellulose ether with the following typical properties:
Thickening and Rheology Control: Upon dissolution in water, it forms a transparent or translucent colloidal solution, effectively increasing the viscosity of the system and imparting optimal flowability.
Film-Forming: HPMC forms a flexible, breathable film on the skin or surfaces, providing protection and moisturizing properties.
Emulsion Stability: HPMC improves the stability of emulsion systems and prevents oil-water separation.
Non-ionic: Unaffected by acidic, alkaline, and salt environments, it has a wide range of compatibility. Safe and non-toxic: Naturally sourced, it complies with environmental protection and green chemical concepts, and has good skin tolerance.
These properties lay the foundation for the widespread use of HPMC in daily chemical products.
2. Functions of HPMC in Daily Chemical Products
2.1. Thickening and Texture Improvement
HPMC is used as a thickener in cleansing products such as shampoo, shower gel, and hand soap. It improves flowability, making the product texture smoother and more delicate, enhancing application and lathering, while also preventing waste caused by over-thinning.
2.2. Emulsion Stabilization and Suspension
In skincare products such as lotions and creams, HPMC helps stabilize oil-water mixtures and delays separation or settling. For products containing solid particles or active ingredients, HPMC also acts as a suspending agent, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
2.3. Film Formation and Moisturization
After drying, an HPMC solution forms a transparent film on the skin surface, which not only reduces water evaporation and provides moisturizing benefits, but also enhances the adhesion and long-lasting properties of active ingredients in skincare products. In cosmetics such as mascara and liquid eyeliner, the film-forming properties of HPMC are particularly important.
2.4. Improving the User Experience
HPMC can impart excellent spreadability and a smooth feel to cosmetics, making skincare and cleansing products gentler and more comfortable to use, avoiding excessive dryness or irritation.
2.5. Solubility and Controlled Release
In certain functional daily chemical products, HPMC can also serve as a solubility aid, improving the dispersion of poorly soluble ingredients. Furthermore, its sustained-release properties enable the gradual release of active ingredients, prolonging the skincare effect.
3. Typical Applications
Cleansing products: In shampoo, shower gel, hand soap, and facial cleanser, HPMC primarily serves as a thickener and suspending agent, enhancing texture and stability.
Skincare products: In lotions, creams, and mask serums, HPMC is used to stabilize the emulsion system and enhance moisturizing effects.
Cosmetics: In mascara, liquid eyeliner, and liquid foundation, the film-forming properties of HPMC enhance adhesion and long-lasting makeup. Oral Care: HPMC, as a colloidal thickener in toothpaste and mouthwash, maintains a smooth, uniform paste.
4. Advantages and Development Trends
Compared to traditional thickeners, HPMC offers the advantages of being non-toxic, low-irritant, and naturally derived, meeting modern consumers’ demands for “green, healthy, and environmentally friendly” products. As the daily chemical industry moves toward natural and functional products, demand for HPMC continues to grow. In the future, combined with nanotechnology and active carrier systems, HPMC’s potential for application in controlled-release skincare and functional cosmetics will be even greater.
As a versatile and highly safe cellulose derivative, HPMC has become an indispensable additive in the daily chemical industry. From thickening, emulsification, and film formation to moisturizing and improving skin feel, it plays a vital role in enhancing product quality and user experience. With evolving consumer demands and advancements in daily chemical technology, the application prospects of HPMC will continue to expand.
Post time: Sep-26-2025