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 to 3%
  
• Ingredients: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Sodium Acetate, Water, Cellulose, Ethanedial

• Clear gel formulations
• Thickening shower gels, shampoos, and conditioners
• Improving glide and texture in water-based personal care products
• Helping suspend small amounts of oils in suitable gel systems
• Building viscosity in water-based formulas without heat

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Is For:

• DIY makers and formulators creating clear gels and water-based products
• Formulas 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

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Is Not For:

• Finished skincare use without formulation
• Projects where powdered thickeners cannot be weighed and dispersed accurately
• Formulas built around non-ionic surfactants where this material is not the right fit according to the source guidance

• As a Clear Gel Thickener: Use 0.1 to 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.
• Processing Tip: Gentle warming or warm water can speed up hydration.

• 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: Can Hydroxyethyl Cellulose make a clear gel?
A: Yes. It is commonly used to make clear gels when properly dispersed and fully hydrated.

Q: Does it need heat to work?
A: No. It hydrates without heat, though gentle warming can make the process faster.

Q: Why do clumps sometimes form?
A: Clumping usually happens when the powder hydrates too quickly on the surface, so pre-wetting with glycerine or using strong mixing helps.

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.