Absorbent

Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate

INCI: distarch phosphate

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026

Also known as: distarch phosphate, hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate

Lightweight, plant-based or synthetic starch ingredient

What Is Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate?

Hydroxypropyl starch phosphate is a lightweight, plant-based or synthetic starch ingredient that functions as a texture enhancer in cosmetics. It belongs to the chemical class carbohydrates and is used in all types of personal care products, including conditioners, facial care, body washes, sunscreens, and hairstyling products. This ingredient is also used to stabilize cosmetic products and may be listed as distarch phosphate or hydroxypropyl distarch phosphate.

How widely it's used

0.8%
of skincare products contain this ingredient — placing it in the top 25% of most-used ingredients.
Most common in: Cleansers Moisturisers Treatments

Regulatory information

Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.

Show identifiers
INCI Name
HYDROXYPROPYL STARCH PHOSPHATE
Function
Bulking, Viscosity Controlling

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Other forms of Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate

These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate is the common form.

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