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Hydroxypropyl Oxidized Starch
AKA “Modified Starch, Oxidized Starch”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Hydroxypropyl oxidized starch
AKA: Modified Starch
Synthetic · Film Forming · EWG: 4
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Skin Conditioner
Synthetic
Clean
Hydroxypropyl Oxidized Starch is the reaction product of oxygen and Hydroxypropyl Starch Science: Functions: Film Forming Safety Ratings: CIR: Safe as used
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
Skin Conditioning
A catch-all term for ingredients that improve how skin looks and feels — softer, smoother, more supple. The workhorse behind most moisturizers.
Creates Protective Barrier
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Fights Bacteria
Traditional Use
Starch was chemically oxidized and hydroxypropylated in the 20th century to create a thickening and texturizing agent. Used in cosmetics as a natural-origin alternative to synthetic polymers.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
EWG
4
CIR
Safe
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Sensitizer
medical-approval
all-shades-safe
Concentration Guide
Dermal absorption: 2%. Source: CIR Safety Assessment (CIR Seq 680).
Regulatory Status
USA✔ permitted
EU⚠ restricted
JAPAN⚠ restricted
CANADA⚠ restricted
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR