Hydroxyethyl Cellulose - 5KG

Hydroxyethyl Cellulose is a plant-derived thickening gum used to create smooth clear gels and to build viscosity in water-based personal care formulas. It is a non-ionic rheology modifier that hydrates without needing heat, although gentle warming can help speed up the process. This ingredient is especially valued for making elegant gels with a smoother feel and less stringiness than some other gums.

It is a raw formulation ingredient, not a finished product. Why we love it: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose because gives formulators a reliable way to create cleaner-feeling gels and improve texture without overly complicated processing. It is especially useful when clarity, glide, and a non-tacky gel feel matter.

Also available in Sample Sizes. Key Properties of Essentially Natural Hydroxyethyl Cellulose INCI Name: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Appearance: White powder Solubility: Water soluble Ionic Character: Non-ionic pH: 6 Typical Usage Rate: 0.1 to 3% Ingredients: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Sodium Acetate, Water, Cellulose, Ethanedial What is Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Used For Clear gel formulations Thickening shower gels, shampoos, and conditioners Improving glide and texture in water-based personal care products Helping suspend small amounts of oils in suitable gel systems Building viscosity in water-based formulas without heat Who is Hydroxyethyl Cellulose For Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Is For: DIY makers and formulators creating clear gels and water-based products Formulas that need viscosity build without heat processing Surfactant systems that benefit from improved texture and performance Makers who want a smooth gel feel without a stringy finish Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Is Not For: Finished skincare use without formulation Projects where powdered thickeners cannot be weighed and dispersed accurately Formulas built around non-ionic surfactants where this material is not the right fit according to the source guidance How To Use Hydroxyethyl Cellulose As a Clear Gel Thickener: Use 0.1 to 3% in the water phase to build viscosity, then allow time for full hydration and clarity development.

As a Surfactant Formula Thickener: Add at low levels to increase viscosity and improve feel in compatible cleansing bases. As a Dispersion Method With Glycerine: Pre-blend the powder into vegetable glycerine to wet it out, then add the rest of the water phase while mixing well. As a Direct Sprinkle Method: Sprinkle into the water phase under high-shear mixing until uniform, then allow the mixture to finish hydrating.

Processing Tip: Thickening typically develops over a few hours without heat. Processing Tip: Gentle warming or warm water can speed up hydration. Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Safety Instructions For cosmetic formulation use only Avoid inhaling powder and avoid creating airborne dust Wear a mask and eye protection when handling powders Avoid contact with eyes, if contact occurs rinse thoroughly with water Keep out of reach of children Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark place away from moisture and heat FAQs Q: Can Hydroxyethyl Cellulose make a clear gel?

A: Yes. It is commonly used to make clear gels when properly dispersed and fully hydrated. Q: Does it need heat to work? A: No. It hydrates without heat, though gentle warming can make the process faster. Q: Why do clumps sometimes form? A: Clumping usually happens when the powder hydrates too quickly on the surface, so pre-wetting with glycerine or using strong mixing helps.

Q: How long does it take to fully thicken? A: Many formulas reach their final viscosity after a few hours as the gum fully hydrates.