Hydroxyethylcellulose

Hydroxyethylcellulose is a plant-derived, water-soluble cellulose ether used in many personal care products. It thickens water phases, supports foam stability, and adds slip in cleansers, serums, and hair gels.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A plant-based thickener that adds smooth, gliding texture to products.
Category
Tone/Texture
Type
Thickener

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Great

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Improves softness and body, making application smoother without heaviness. Can curb dripping and improve the feel of foam in rinse-off products.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Common in shampoos, body washes, and sheet-mask essences to create clear gels and stable lathers.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Widely regarded as safe with very low irritation potential at cosmetic use levels. Rare cases of sensitivity may cause transient redness or itch. Safe for use around the eyes when properly formulated and rinsed if used in cleansers.

Is Hydroxyethylcellulose a Good Ingredient?

Rated Great because this inert, plant-derived thickener reliably creates clear, smooth gels, holds up in water-based systems, and is well tolerated by most skin types. It improves texture without disrupting actives or adding oiliness, which is why it lands at the top of this category.

Products with Hydroxyethylcellulose

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