Texture Enhancer

Sodium Propoxyhydroxypropyl Thiosulfate Silica

INCI: SODIUM PROPOXYHYDROXYPROPYL THIOSULFATE SILICA

Reviewed by Rosie · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Sodium Propoxyhydroxypropyl Thiosulfate Silica

A silica-based conditioning agent that helps refine skin texture and support cleansing formulations

Best For Skin Types

All, Oily, Combination

Addresses

Oil control, Texture

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Sodium Propoxyhydroxypropyl Thiosulfate Silica?

Sodium Propoxyhydroxypropyl Thiosulfate Silica is a modified silica compound designed to function as a conditioning and texture-enhancing agent in skincare formulations. It combines silica—a naturally occurring mineral—with synthetic modifiers to create a multifunctional ingredient that works primarily in cleansing and treatment products.

This ingredient is often included to improve the sensory feel and performance characteristics of a formula, particularly in products aimed at refining skin texture and supporting cleansing efficacy.

How It Works

This ingredient works by interacting with the skin's surface to help remove excess oils and impurities whilst maintaining a conditioning effect. The silica component provides a gentle polishing action, whilst the chemical modifiers help it dissolve and rinse cleanly from the skin without leaving residue.

Unlike exfoliating silicas that physically abrade the skin, this modified version is designed to work at the chemical level, making it gentler and suitable for regular use in rinse-off formulations.

Clinical Evidence & References

Published clinical data specifically on this ingredient is limited. Most evidence comes from cosmetic chemists and formulators who have documented its performance in rinse-off products, where it demonstrates consistent conditioning and texture-enhancing properties.

It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic formulations at typical concentrations, though individual human studies evaluating skin-specific benefits would strengthen our understanding of its efficacy.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically encountered in cleansing products such as face washes and micellar waters rather than leave-on treatments. Use as directed by the specific product formulation, usually once or twice daily during cleansing. Rinse thoroughly after use to remove all residue.

Safety & Precautions

This ingredient is generally well-tolerated and recognised as safe in cosmetic use. No significant adverse effects have been reported at typical concentrations, though those with very sensitive skin should perform a patch test if introducing a new product containing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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