Cellulase

TL;DR. This ingredient is an enzyme used mainly for gentle enzymatic exfoliation and texture refinement, especially in rinse-off masks, cleansers, and scalp products. It breaks down cellulose-based material rather than acting as a classic acid exfoliant.

What does Cellulase do in a cosmetic formula?

This ingredient is an enzyme used mainly for gentle enzymatic exfoliation and texture refinement, especially in rinse-off masks, cleansers, and scalp products. It breaks down cellulose-based material rather than acting as a classic acid exfoliant.

Is Cellulase clean?

From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well accepted and not a common restricted-list concern. As a protein enzyme, it can be sensitizing in airborne powder or spray formats, so finished-product format and handling matter.

Is Cellulase sustainable?

This material is usually made by microbial fermentation, often using plant-derived carbohydrate feedstocks. It is biodegradable and not expected to persist in the environment, although fermentation inputs and purification steps shape its footprint.

Is Cellulase COSMOS-approved?

It can be permitted under COSMOS-natural and COSMOS-organic frameworks when produced through compliant fermentation, including non-GMO production organisms and acceptable processing aids. Its Green Chemistry fit is strong because it is catalytic, effective under mild conditions, and biodegradable.

How does Cellulase work chemically?

The molecule is a globular glycoside-hydrolase protein that cleaves beta-1,4 linkages in cellulose and related polysaccharides. Use levels are usually based on enzyme activity rather than simple weight percent, and formulators typically add it during cool-down, often below 40°C, in a grade-specific pH window around mildly acidic to neutral conditions.

Last updated 2026-05-14