Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a cellulose derivative used in various industries, including the pharmaceutical industry, the food industry, and the cosmetics industry. It acts as a thickener, stabilizer and film forming agent. HPMC is soluble in water and forms a viscous gel when hydrated. It is used in pharmaceuticals to improve the consistency of drugs and prolong their duration of action. In the food industry, it is used as a texture and adhesion agent. In the cosmetics industry, it is used in creams, lotions and hair products to give them consistency and improve their texture.