What it is
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin is a chemically modified cyclodextrin, a cyclic oligosaccharide with a cavity that can host other molecules. In sunscreens and skincare it is used to form inclusion complexes with poorly soluble or unstable ingredients, helping to solubilize them, improve their stability, and sometimes reduce odor or volatility. The hydroxypropyl modification increases its water solubility compared with unmodified cyclodextrin.
Safety & warnings
Hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin is generally well tolerated in topical cosmetics and has a low irritation profile. It is a large, water-soluble sugar derivative with limited skin penetration.
Origin & sourcing
It is a semi-synthetic ingredient made by chemically modifying cyclodextrin, which is itself produced from starch through enzymatic conversion.
Questions everyone asks
What does hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin do?
It acts like a molecular cage that can hold other ingredients, helping dissolve poorly soluble substances and improving their stability in a formula.
What is it made from?
It is a modified cyclodextrin, a ring-shaped sugar produced from starch and then chemically modified with hydroxypropyl groups for better water solubility.