Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is an off-white powder that is easily dispersed and dissolved in cold or hot water. HEC acts as a thickening and stabilizing agent. Chemically, it is the cellulose of short to very long chain length that has been etherified to a hydroxyethyl ether to achieve an optimum balance of properties.
HEC is used as a viscosity and rheology modifier, protective colloid, water retention agent, stabilizer, and suspending agent, particularly in those applications where a non-ionic material is desired. It is commonly found in formulations for lotions, creams, hair conditioners, and liquid soaps.
Suggested Use & Storage
INCI Nomenclature: Hydroxyethylcellulose Appearance: Off-White Powder Solubility: Water Soluble Suggested Use Levels: 0.5-3% pH: 6.7 Storage: Protected from direct light and humidity at a temperature of 50°-77°F (10°-25°C) Shelf life: 12 months, properly stored, in a sealed container. This product should be added to a formulation at the recommended usage rate. External Use Only; Cosmetic & Personal Care Formulations Only.
