Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC): Non-ionic Thickener and Gelling Agent

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) is a water-soluble polymer known for its exceptional thickening and suspending capabilities in personal care and cosmetic products. This nonionic thickener easily disperses in water, ensuring minimal to no lumping, making it an essential ingredient for creating clear, stable gel products. Hydroxyethyl Cellulose is ideal for adjusting consistency, enhancing stability, and providing a luxurious feel in liquid soaps, serums, and hair styling gels. Its unique properties allow for the creation of crystal-clear products, adding to the aesthetic appeal without compromising performance.

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose will produce crystal clear gel products and thicken the aqueous phase of cosmetic emulsions. However, it will not thicken 70% isopropyl alcohol. HEC is only soluble in solutions containing no more than 30% alcohol.

Key Features of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC):

• Stabilizing Agent: Enhances stability and consistency in personal care formulations without altering the final product’s appearance.
• Usage: Suitable for creating clear gels, enhancing the feel of skin and hair care products, and stabilizing water-based emulsions.
• INCI Name: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
• Physical Form: Off-White, free-flowing, light-weight, granular powder
• Solubility: Soluble in Water/Not soluble in Oils
• Viscosity: 4800-6000 cps
• PH: 6.0 (1% in water)

Formulation Guidelines:

• Disperse into room temperature water
• Heat to approximately 165-170F with mixing
• Once the dispersion begins to thicken, remove from heat.
• Cool down while continuing to stir until completely hydrated
• solution can be used as is for a crystal clear product
• No emulsifier needed for all water soluble ingredients

Recommended Percentages:

• For Building water phase Viscosity/Stability: 0.1%- 0.5%
• For high viscosity crystal clear gel: 1.0%-3.0%