Description

(HEC) is a remarkably efficient gelling agent and is useful for adding viscosity to a wide range of skincare products. It is stable across a wide pH range typically between 3 and 10 though some loss of viscosity can occur below pH 3 and above pH 10 which may require increasing the amount of HEC slightly to compensate.

Add Hydroxyethyl Cellulose at 0.3% 0.4% to your heated water phase before combining with the oil phase to increase the viscosity of your emulsions and to aid the stability of the emulsion. HEC is a co-emulsifier so it will strengthen the stability of your emulsion.

HEC creates crystal clear gels with good suspension properties so can be used as the base for serums . It works well with most water soluble active ingredient including aloe vera, alpha hydroxy acids etc. HEC gels can be used as the basis for salt and sugar scrubs (keep below 20% salt crystals (it may be necessary to increase the concentration of HEC).

Try 1% HEC for a pourable serum or scrub base or use 1.5% HEC for a thicker gel.

HEC is a good option for gelling  sterilising gels as it can readily support up to 60% alcohol and up to 70% alcohol (though 60% alcohol is sufficient for hand sanitisers so an extra 10% might not be necessary).

INCI:Hydroxyethylcellulose

Appearance:  Off-White Powder

Solubility:water

Manufacturer Suggested Usage: 0.5-3% to your water phase. Apply while continuously mixing until hydrated and it will hydrate very efficiently with moderate mixing.

Common Uses/ Benefits

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is an excellent thickening agent for all of your personal care products. Of all the natural polymers (gums) Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) creates one of the most clear serums and makes an excellent vehicle for your active ingredients. This is the polymers (gums) of choice when you need your serums to be crystal clear.

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a great addition to cleansers and shampoos where it will enhance the foam allowing you to use less surfactant while also reducing the irritation potential making your cleansers more gentle and more effective. Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is an excellent choice for clear hair gel where it will offer soft hold and a nice feel on the hair without stickiness or flaking.

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is also one of the easiest polymers (gums) to process. It may be added to your water phase at the end with moderate agitation and it will hydrate very efficiently with very little mixing.

BENEFITS

• Compatible with most Cosmetic Materials
• Easy Processing and Hydration
• Highly Tolerant of Acids
• Smooth Feel on Skin
• Crystal Clear Gels
• Non-Stringy
• Non-Sticky

Applications

• Skin,  body,  and hair care products
• Conditioners, Rinse Out and Leave In
• Cleansers, Shampoos
• Styling Aids
• Creams
• Serums
• Lotions
• Gels