What Is It?
Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a polysaccharide derivative with gel thickening, emulsifying, bubble-forming, water-retaining and stabilizing properties. It is used as a key ingredient in many household cleaning products, lubricants and cosmetics due to its non-ionic and water-soluble nature.
Cellulose is a naturally occurring component found in the cell walls of plants. There are many modified cellulose polymers that may be used in cosmetics and personal care products. These cellulose ingredients may be used in cosmetics and personal care products including bath products, hair products, eye and facial makeup, skin care products and shaving products.
Why is it used in cosmetics and personal care products?
The following functions have been reported for these ingredients.
- Abrasive
- Absorbent
- Adhesive
- Anticaking agent
- Binder
- Bulking agent
- Emulsion stabilizer
- Film former
- Opacifying agent
- Skin conditioning agent - humectant
- Slip modifier
- Viscosity increasing agent - aqueous