Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) Powder – High Viscosity Cosmetic Grade Thickener for Lotions, Shampoos, Serums & Gels – Smooth Texture, Suspension Aid, Clear-to-Translucent Viscosity Boost

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About this item

• Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) is a versatile, water-soluble thickener that builds smooth viscosity, improves slip and spread, reduces dripping, and helps stabilize/suspend pigments, clays, exfoliants, and botanical powders. Creates elegant, non-tacky textures and enhances foam feel in cleansers and shampoos while supporting consistent product performance.
• Widely used in: facial/body lotions, gel-creams, hydrating serums, cleansing gels, micellar waters, shampoos/conditioners, liquid hand soaps, shower gels, styling gels, hair masks, scrubs (to suspend beads), masks (clay/charcoal), aftershave gels, and rinse-off treatments—ideal wherever a silky, stable viscosity is needed.
• Typical use level: 0.2–1.0% for light thickening/flow, 1.0–2.0% for gel-like viscosity (start low and adjust). Best practice: pre-disperse in glycerin/propylene glycol (or sprinkle slowly into vortexed water) to avoid clumps. Allow full hydration (often 20–60 min). Add early in water phase; heat is optional—avoid boiling. Finish with final pH check and viscosity tweak.
• Compatible with most cosmetic actives and systems: glycerin, propylene glycol, aloe, niacinamide, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, surfactants, and many electrolytes at moderate levels. Works well alongside other thickeners (xanthan, sclerotium gum, carbomer, Sepimax/HEUR) for texture tuning. Tip: very high salt/electrolyte loads can reduce viscosity—pilot test and adjust polymer level.
• Formulation ideas: (1) Crystal-clear cleanser gel with mild surfactants + HEC for cushion; (2) Lightweight gel-cream lotion using HEC to prevent runniness; (3) Scrub or clay mask suspension system for stable particles. Key takeaways: easy thickening, great slip, better suspension, and improved user feel—optimize by controlling hydration, mixing, and electrolyte load.