OK
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients
The material selection platform
Cosmetics Ingredients

HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE

CAS Number 9004-62-0
Chem/IUPAC Name: Cellulose, 2-hydroxyethyl ether
COSING REF No: 76845
HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a gelling and thickening agent derived from cellulose. It also works as a rheology modifier. It is a key ingredient in the formation of big bubbles as it possesses the ability to dissolve in water but also provide structural strength to the soap bubble.

What is HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE used for?

Hydroxyethylcellulose is used as a binding, emulsion-stabilizing, film-forming, and viscosity-controlling agent in cosmetics and personal care products. It is used as a thickener, rheology modifier, and syneresis control agent in toothpaste formulations where high di- and trivalent salt tolerance is required. It is compatible with most co-ingredients and gives a very good slip to the formulas. It efficiently thickens shampoos, body washes, and shower gels.

It makes skin and hair products thicker and easier to apply on the skin or hair. When added to water, it swells into crystal-clear gels. It improves the product's texture and feel. It reduces the skin’s irritation potential and makes hair gels less sticky.

Origin

It is manufactured by the etherification of cellulose with ethylene oxide.

What does HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE do in a formulation?

  • Binding
  • Film forming
  • Stabilising
  • Viscosity controlling

Safety profile

Hydroxyethylcellulose is considered safe to be used in cosmetics and personal care products by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel.

HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE Alternatives

Technical profile

Property Values
Melting Point 288-290°C
pH 5.0-8.0
Solubility Soluble in water
Viscosity approx. 270 mPa.s at 20°C
55

Commercial Selection : Grades containing solely HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE

86
Back to Top