What it is
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a non-ionic, water-soluble polymer made by modifying cellulose with hydroxyethyl groups. In sunscreens and skincare it thickens the water phase, helps suspend and stabilize other ingredients, and improves the body and consistency of gels and lotions. It can also lend a light film-forming quality and is valued for working across a wide pH range.
Safety & warnings
Hydroxyethylcellulose is generally well tolerated and non-irritating as used in cosmetics. It is not a recognized fragrance allergen.
Origin & sourcing
It is a semi-synthetic polymer derived from cellulose, a natural plant material, which is chemically modified with hydroxyethyl groups.
Questions everyone asks
What does hydroxyethylcellulose do in a formula?
It is a thickener and stabilizer that builds viscosity in water-based products and helps keep the other ingredients evenly suspended and consistent.
Is hydroxyethylcellulose natural or synthetic?
It is semi-synthetic: it starts from plant-derived cellulose that is then chemically modified to make it water-soluble.