Viscosity Controller / Thickener

Hydroxyethylcellulose

Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a water-soluble, non-ionic polymer derived from cellulose — the structural material found in plant cell walls — through a process of etherification with ethylene oxide. In cosmetic formulations it acts primarily as a thickening and gelling agent, building viscosity and creating smooth, stable gel textures without the use of synthetic polymers. Because it does not appreciably penetrate the skin barrier, it functions purely as a formulation helper rather than an active.