Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC, 5000cP, 64C Gel)
INCI: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose
Grade: 5000 cP viscosity, approx. 64°C thermal gel point.
Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose has many uses in personal care products. It is a thickener, lubricant, skin conditioner, flow control and viscosity control agent. HPMC is non-toxic, non-flammable, not irritating to the skin and does not support the growth of microbes. This high viscosity grade builds thick gels and body at low use levels. Common uses include:
Food substances: Used as a substitute for gluten in making grain breads
Gelling agent: Can be used to produce natural gels
Skincare: Assists in emulsion stabilising of creams, lotions and balms
Personal care: Stabilises foam in body washes, hand washes, shampoos and facial cleansers. HPMC adds lubricity and increases the viscosity of the product.
Film forming: HPMC solutions dry to form flexible dry films.
Construction materials: Used in tile adhesives as a water retention agent
Coating agent: Used as a coating agent in tablets
Other uses: Gypsum products, paints and coatings
Safety information
Contact with eyes may lead to blurred vision, tearing and redness. As HPMC is a dusty powder, it may lead to breathing problems, itching, swelling.