Hydroxyethylcellulose
INCI · Hydroxyethylcellulose · also HEC
Overview
A thickener made by chemically modifying plant cellulose so it dissolves in water. It builds a clear, slightly stringy gel and is the backbone of many gel cleansers, masks and water-light serums.
Who it's for
Nearly everyone, though not as a choice — it is a texture ingredient that determines how a product pours and clings rather than anything it does to skin.
Cautions
It does nothing for skin on its own, so a product is not better or worse for containing it. Cellulose gels can pill under sunscreen or makeup if layered heavily, which is a texture complaint rather than a safety concern.
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- Max safe
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What does Hydroxyethylcellulose do in skincare?
A thickener made by chemically modifying plant cellulose so it dissolves in water. It builds a clear, slightly stringy gel and is the backbone of many gel cleansers, masks and water-light serums.
Is Hydroxyethylcellulose considered safe for skin?
It does nothing for skin on its own, so a product is not better or worse for containing it. Cellulose gels can pill under sunscreen or makeup if layered heavily, which is a texture complaint rather than a safety concern.