Cellulose

Cellulose is a natural polysaccharide that forms the main structural component of plant cell walls, particularly in wood and other plant materials such as wood shavings. It occurs in a dense, fat-like form, with a chemical composition similar to starch, and is obtained directly from nature or modified for cosmetic use. It is used in the form of microcrystalline cellulose with crystals measuring 20 to 150 nm, giving it a distinctive structure that can form gels on contact with water. It is completely safe, hypoallergenic, non-toxic and biodegradable, with no medicinal effects on human skin, but with strong absorbent properties that reduce the transparency of products. In cosmetics, it serves as a filler and binder and thickens formulations, improving their stability and spreadability on both skin and hair.

Function

Cellulose moisturises the skin by binding water and forming hydrating gels similar to the skin's natural moisturising factors, helping to regulate hydration and prevent dryness. It restores the protective barrier by protecting against external factors such as dryness or irritation, stabilises emulsions and prevents ingredients from separating into layers. It acts indirectly as an antioxidant by stabilising active ingredients such as vitamins, prolonging their activity. It absorbs excess sebum and water, contributing to a gentle exfoliating effect, and soothes the skin thanks to its hypoallergenic properties without causing irritation. Typical concentrations are not strictly specified, but it is used at low percentages (0,5-5 %) as a thickener and stabiliser to achieve optimal viscosity without a greasy feel.

Recommendations

It is recommended for dry, sensitive, oily, combination, dehydrated and mature skin. For dry and dehydrated skin, it provides intensive hydration and protection against moisture loss. Sensitive skin benefits from its hypoallergenic, non-irritating properties, making it ideal for minimalist, fragrance-free formulations. It helps oily and acne-prone skin by absorbing excess sebum without clogging pores, and is suitable for deodorants and antiperspirants. Mature skin benefits from visibly smoother wrinkles and improved elasticity through better product texture. It is suitable for all types of products, including creams, gels, masks, shampoos and make-up, particularly in natural cosmetics.

References, specific figures and statistics

Microcrystalline cellulose in crystalline form measuring 20-150 nm significantly improves emulsion viscosity by 20-50 % depending on the concentration, preventing separation into layers in face creams and shampoos (Natural Poland, Polysaccharides in cosmetics, 2023). Carboxymethylcellulose (a cellulose derivative) at a concentration of 1-3 % increases the stability of suspensions in scrubs, keeping particles evenly distributed for 6 months of storage without sedimentation (Kimachemical, The role of cellulose in skincare, 2022). A study on polysaccharides confirms that cellulose increases pigment adhesion in pressed make-up by 30 %, improving the coverage of bronzers and eyeshadows (Journal of Cosmetic Science, Polysaccharide applications, 2019).