Potassium Cellulose Succinate
AKA “Cellulose derivative, Film-former
Skin Conditioning
Ingredient Facts
Potassium cellulose succinate
AKA: Cellulose derivative, Film-former
Skin Conditioning · Opacifying · EWG: 4
Synthetic
Skin Conditioner
Not Clean
Potassium salt of cellulose succinate
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Opacifying
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Locks in moisture
Traditional Use
Synthetic polymer created in the 20th century by combining cellulose (plant fiber) with succinic acid. Designed as a film-forming and thickening agent for modern cosmetic formulations.
Skin Types
all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Regulatory Status
USApermitted
EUrestricted
JAPANrestricted
CANADArestricted
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR