Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC)

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC)

Ref. FSSB30099

INCI: Hydroxyethylcellulose

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a non-ionic, water-soluble thickener and stabilizer that enhances texture, viscosity, and suspension in skincare, haircare, and bodycare formulations.

Volume: 50 g
Sale price6,31€
Benefits

🧴Smooth Texture Creation.
💧Helps improve moisture feel and stability.
🛡️Stabilizing Agent.
🔬Non-Ionic Compatibility.
✨Enhanced Sensory Feel.
🌀Suspending Capability.

Common Acronyms Used at Formulator Sample Shop Europe

To make it easier to navigate our product information, here are some commonly used acronyms at Formulator Sample Shop Europe:

FSS: Formulator Sample Shop
G: Glycerin
OS: Oil Soluble
SF: Salicylate Free
PF: Preservative Free

Description

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a high-purity, non-ionic cellulose ether derived from natural cellulose and modified with hydroxyethyl groups to achieve an ideal balance of solubility, thickening efficiency, and formulation versatility. Offered as an off-white, free-flowing powder, HEC easily disperses and dissolves in both hot and cold water, forming smooth, consistent gels without the stickiness or instability associated with some natural gums.

In cosmetic and personal care applications, HEC functions as a viscosity and rheology modifier, stabilizer, protective colloid, water-retention agent, and suspending polymer—making it valuable in systems that require clarity, non-ionic compatibility, and reliable stability. It is especially useful in surfactant-heavy products, emulsions, and aqueous gels where controlled thickening and a pleasant, silky slip are desired. HEC is commonly found in lotions, creams, hair conditioners, serums, gels, liquid soaps, and other rinse-off or leave-on formulations that benefit from consistent, stable texture.

Made Of:

Hydroxyethyl ether–modified cellulose polymer







Why It’s Perfect for You:

Choose HEC if your formulas need stable, non-ionic thickening without the challenges of natural gums or the high activity of synthetic polymers. Ideal for achieving consistent viscosity, elegant slip, and clear gel systems, it’s a must-have for both beginner and advanced formulators who want predictable performance and broad compatibility.

Suggested Applications

Hydroxyethylcellulose should be dispersed into water under gentle mixing, allowing the granules to hydrate fully to achieve a smooth, lump-free gel structure. It can be used in cold or hot-processed formulations and is compatible with surfactants, emulsifiers, and most cosmetic actives. Add at recommended usage levels to lotions, gels, creams, hair conditioners, liquid soaps, and other personal care systems to control viscosity, enhance stability, and improve sensory glide.

You may also be interested in these products

Blog posts

Skin ScienceAll the secrets you wanted to know about skin biology!

All the secrets you wanted to know about skin biology!

01/10/2024
READ
TrendingA dive into the ocean inspired ingredients

A dive into the ocean inspired ingredients

18/05/2023
READ
TrendingSolid cosmetic revolution

Solid cosmetic revolution

09/05/2023
READ

Got questions? The FAQ has answers.

Check the FAQ

Low minimum orders, perfect for small brands and DIY enthusiasts!

Ship anywhere (well, almost...excluding the US and Canada)

Full product documentation available upon request!