Ingredient · Updated
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Found in 5 products
ThinkSport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen 
Thinksport Daily Use Mineral Sunscreen with Non-Nano Zinc Oxide; UVA/UVB Protection -Sweat & Water Resistant - SPF 50 
Kirkland Signature C 1000 mg with Rose Hips and Citrus Bioflavonoid Complex tablets 
Member's Mark Magnesium Glycinate 
Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTION What is Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose?
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a chemically modified cellulose polymer. It's derived from plant fiber, making it a non-toxic and inert compound commonly used in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
HPMC is utilized as a thickener, emulsifier, and film former. In food, it acts to improve texture and stability. It is considered safe for consumption, and health agencies have approved it as an additive. Some studies are exploring its effects on gut health but evidence remains mixed.
When you see HPMC on a label, it usually indicates the product requires improved consistency or preservation of ingredients’ structure. It is generally recognized as safe and non-allergenic.
Commonly found in: supplements, deodorants, sunscreens, food products, pharmaceutical tablets
What to watch
- Large doses may cause mild digestive discomfort, as it is a form of fiber.
Benefits
- It provides dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is approved by the FDA and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food products.
Research shows it is safe for consumption with some interest in its potential digestive health benefits.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is plant-derived and typically acceptable for vegan diets.
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
There are minimal risks associated with its use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTIONThe case for
It improves the texture and consistency of the product.
from the analysis of Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTIONMore from Scout's analyses
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is a plant-derived compound used as a thickener and emulsifier in supplements. It is considered safe and is often used to create a controlled release of active ingredients. This ingredient does not contribute to nutritional value but is important for the structural integrity of the tablet.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature C 1000 mg with Rose Hips and Citrus Bioflavonoid Complex tabletsHydroxypropyl Methylcellulose is used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in cosmetics. It helps in improving the texture and consistency of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of Carpe Antiperspirant for Underarms / Aluminum Sesquichlorohydrate / LOTIONHydroxypropyl methylcellulose is a cellulose derivative used as a thickener and film former, recognized as safe for consumption.
from the analysis of Member's Mark Magnesium GlycinateAll 5 products with Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Where Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose shows up
- Sunscreen 2 products
- Immunity 1 product
- Multivitamins 1 product
- Deodorant 1 product
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