Structure builders
Hydroxyethylcellulose
It creates smooth, shear-thinning viscosity across many pH conditions and is often more electrolyte-tolerant than ionic acrylic thickeners.
- INCI
- HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE
- CAS
- 9004-62-0
- Also known as
- HEC · cellulose hydroxyethyl ether
- Function
- Structure builders
Ingredient answer
What is Hydroxyethylcellulose?
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a nonionic cellulose polymer used to thicken water phases, suspend material, and modify flow.
Formulation behavior
How it works inside a formula
Disperse without clumps, allow full hydration, and assess grade viscosity, microbial quality, surfactants, salts, shear, and clarity.
Where it appears
Common product contexts
- creams and lotions
- gels
- cleansers and conditioners
Practical caution
What to keep in view
Hydration, processing order, electrolytes, pH, and shear can materially change performance.
Take the ingredient into a working formula.
Keep supplier details, percentages, compliance checks, and batch records inside your private Formuley workspace.