Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
AKA “Cetyl HEC, Hydroxyethyl cellulose cetyl ether”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Cetyl hydroxyethylcellulose
AKA: Cetyl HEC, Hydroxyethyl cellulose cetyl ether
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
A natural thickener derived from cellulose that creates a smooth texture and helps formulas stay blended and stable on skin.
CAS #
80455-45-4
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Viscosity Controlling, Anti
Inflammatory, Moisturizing, Boosts Collagen, Creates protective layer, Keeps product blended, Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
A synthetic polymer created by chemically modifying cellulose in the 20th century. Used as a thickening and suspending agent in cosmetics with no traditional historical use.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR