Microcrystalline cellulose is a purified, partially depolymerized cellulose derived from plant fibers, used in skincare and cosmetics as a bulking agent, texture modifier, anti-caking agent, and emulsion stabilizer. It is inert and primarily serves formulation purposes rather than providing active skin benefits.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Skin irritation | Rare | Generally non-irritating; mild irritation occasionally reported, often related to formulation or physical abrasion in scrubs. |
Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | Cellulose is widely regarded as non-sensitizing; sensitization is exceptionally uncommon. |
Mechanical/exfoliative micro-abrasion | Uncommon | When used as a physical exfoliant particle, can cause transient redness or microtears with overuse on sensitive skin. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.