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Methyl Cyclodextrin

What Methyl Cyclodextrin is & what it does

Methyl Cyclodextrin is a methylated derivative of cyclodextrin, a ring-shaped sugar molecule built from glucose units. In cosmetic formulas it is used mainly as a carrier and stabilizer: its ring can encapsulate other ingredients, such as fragrances or active compounds, to improve their solubility, stability, or controlled release. It may also help mask odors and reduce volatility of trapped molecules.

What does Methyl Cyclodextrin do in skincare?

It acts mainly as a carrier and stabilizer. Its ring-shaped structure can encapsulate other molecules, such as fragrances or active compounds, to improve their solubility, stability, or controlled release. It can also help reduce odor and the volatility of the ingredients it traps.

Is Methyl Cyclodextrin natural or synthetic?

It is a derivative of cyclodextrin, a ring-shaped sugar built from glucose units that is itself produced from starch. The methyl groups are added through chemical modification, so the finished ingredient is best described as a modified, semi-synthetic sugar-based material.

Is Methyl Cyclodextrin vegan?

It is derived from cyclodextrin, which is typically produced from plant-based starch such as corn, so the base material is plant-derived. Vegan status of any finished product also depends on other ingredients and the brand's sourcing and testing policies. Checking the brand's own vegan labeling is the most reliable way to confirm.

Sunscreens with Methyl Cyclodextrin

We rate 6 sunscreens that contain it:

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