Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
AKA “CAB, Cellulose acetate butyrate resin”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Cellulose acetate butyrate
AKA: CAB, Cellulose acetate butyrate resin
Synthetic · Emollient · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Emollient
Occlusive
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Creates a lightweight, breathable layer on skin that helps products stay put longer without feeling heavy or sticky.
CAS #
9004-36-8
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Emollient
Fills in the tiny cracks between skin cells to make everything feel smooth and soft. The "silky finish" ingredient.
Breathability Agent
Creates Protective Barrier
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Fights Bacteria
Traditional Use
Developed in the early 20th century as a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose. Used in cosmetics since the 1930s as a film-forming agent and texture enhancer in nail polishes, mascaras, and hair products.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
European Commission
EU Cosmetic Ingredient Database (CosIng)
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
Environmental Working Group (EWG)
EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
Environmental Working Group (EWG)
EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR