Essentially Natural Hydroxyethyl Cellulose

• INCI Name: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
• Appearance: White powder
• Solubility: Water soluble
• Ionic Character: Non-ionic
• pH: 6
• Typical Usage Rate: 0.1-3%
• Shelf Life: 3 years when stored correctly
• Size Options: 100g, 500g, 1kg, 5kg, 10kg or 20kg
• Ingredients: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Sodium Acetate, Water, Cellulose, Ethanedial

• Clear gel formulations where a smooth, high-viscosity gel is needed
• Thickening surfactant-based products such as shower gels, shampoos, and conditioners
• Improving glide and texture in water-based personal care products
• Helping keep small amounts of oils suspended in suitable gel systems
• Formulas where a clean, non-tacky thickened feel is desired

This product is suitable for:

• DIY makers and formulators creating clear gels and water-based products
• Formulations that need viscosity build without heat processing
• Surfactant systems that benefit from improved texture and performance
• Makers who want a smooth gel feel without a stringy finish

This product is not:

• A direct replacement in formulas built around non-ionic surfactants
• Intended for use as a stand-alone skincare product
• Suitable for anyone who cannot accurately weigh, disperse, and hydrate powdered thickeners

• As a Clear Gel Thickener: Use 0.1-3% in the water phase to build viscosity, then allow time for full hydration and clarity development.
• As a Surfactant Formula Thickener: Add at low levels to increase viscosity and improve feel in compatible cleansing bases.
• As a Dispersion Method With Glycerine: Pre-blend the powder into vegetable glycerine to wet it out, then add the rest of the water phase while mixing well.
• As a Direct Sprinkle Method: Sprinkle into the water phase under high shear mixing until uniform, then allow the mixture to finish hydrating.
• Processing Tip: Thickening typically develops over a few hours without heat, gentle warming or using warm water can speed up hydration.
• Processing Tip: This ingredient is not suitable for use with non-ionic surfactants, use an anionic surfactant system for best performance.

• For cosmetic formulation use only
• Avoid inhaling powder and avoid creating airborne dust
• Wear a mask and eye protection when handling powders
• Avoid contact with eyes, if contact occurs rinse thoroughly with water
• Keep out of reach of children
• Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark place away from moisture and heat

Q: Will this make a clear gel?
A: Yes, hydroxyethyl cellulose is commonly used to make clear gels when properly dispersed and fully hydrated.

Q: Does it need heat to work?
A: No, it thickens without heat, but gentle warming can speed up hydration.

Q: Why do I see clumps when mixing?
A: Clumping usually happens when the powder hydrates too quickly on the surface, pre-wetting with glycerine or using high shear mixing helps prevent this.

Q: How long does it take to fully thicken?
A: Many formulas reach their final viscosity after a few hours as the gum fully hydrates.

Q: How should I store it to maintain quality?
A: Keep it sealed, dry, and stored in a cool, dark place to support the full shelf life.