Microcrystalline Cellulose ●
TL;DR. This ingredient is used as an absorbent, bulking agent, texture modifier, and suspension aid. It can give powders a smoother feel, add body to creams, and help stabilize dispersed particles in formulas.
What does Microcrystalline Cellulose do in a cosmetic formula?
This ingredient is used as an absorbent, bulking agent, texture modifier, and suspension aid. It can give powders a smoother feel, add body to creams, and help stabilize dispersed particles in formulas.
Is Microcrystalline Cellulose clean?
From a clean-beauty perspective, it is generally well-tolerated and has little restricted-list friction. Sensitivity concerns are low in finished products, with inhalation dust mainly relevant during manufacturing or loose powder handling.
Is Microcrystalline Cellulose sustainable?
This material is typically derived from purified plant pulp, often wood or cotton linters, so sourcing quality and forestry practices matter. It is insoluble but biodegradable, renewable, and not associated with long-term environmental persistence.
Is Microcrystalline Cellulose COSMOS-approved?
It is permitted under COSMOS natural and organic product standards when sourcing and processing meet the standard’s requirements. It aligns well with Green Chemistry through renewable feedstocks, biodegradability, and relatively simple processing, though acid hydrolysis and purification still require responsible chemical management.
How does Microcrystalline Cellulose work chemically?
The molecule is an insoluble, high-molecular-weight polysaccharide made of linear beta-1,4-linked D-glucose chains, processed into small crystalline particles rather than a dissolved active. Typical cosmetic use ranges from about 0.5% to 10% depending on whether the goal is slip, absorbency, viscosity support, or powder bulk, and it is broadly stable across normal cosmetic pH ranges.
Last updated 2026-05-13