What it is
Hydrolyzed corn starch octenylsuccinate is made by hydrolyzing corn starch and reacting it with octenylsuccinic anhydride, producing a modified starch with both water-loving and oil-loving character. It absorbs excess oil and helps create a soft-focus, powdery finish, which is valued in matte and oil-controlling formulas. It also helps modify texture and improve the sensory feel of a product.
Safety & warnings
As a modified plant starch, it is generally well tolerated and non-irritating. It is commonly used to absorb oil and provide a matte feel rather than as an active ingredient.
Origin & sourcing
It is derived from corn starch, a plant-based carbohydrate, which is hydrolyzed and chemically modified with octenylsuccinate groups.
Questions everyone asks
Why is modified corn starch used in sunscreen?
It absorbs excess oil and helps create a soft, matte finish, which is useful in matte or oil-controlling formulas.
Is it plant-derived?
Yes, it is made from corn starch that has been hydrolyzed and chemically modified.