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Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate

What Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate is & what it does

A modified, positively charged hyaluronic acid that clings to skin for durable, long-lasting hydration. It resists rinsing and gives a smooth finish.

What is Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate and what does it do in sunscreen?

Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate is a modified, positively charged form of hyaluronic acid used as a humectant. The positive charge helps it cling to skin, so it delivers durable, long-lasting hydration that resists rinsing off. In sunscreen it adds moisture and a smooth, conditioned finish.

Is Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate safe?

Yes, for most people. It is a hyaluronic acid derivative used at low levels for hydration and is generally very well tolerated, including on sensitive skin. It is considered a low-concern moisturizing ingredient.

Is Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate the same as hyaluronic acid?

Not quite, it is a derivative of hyaluronic acid. The molecule has been modified to carry a positive charge, which helps it bind to skin and resist being washed away better than standard hyaluronic acid. It plays the same hydrating role but is engineered to be more substantive and longer-lasting.

Does Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate clog pores?

Generally no. It is a water-loving humectant used in tiny amounts, not an oil or wax, so it is not a typical pore-clogging ingredient. It draws and holds water rather than leaving an occlusive film.

What else is Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate called?

On a label it appears under its INCI name, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate. It is sometimes described in marketing as cationic or charged hyaluronic acid, which refers to the same positively charged derivative. It usually sits in the water-phase part of an ingredient list.

Sunscreens with Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate

We rate 131 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:

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