The Index · Cellulose thickener
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Hydroxyethylcellulose
Nonionic cellulose ether thickener for aqueous gels and serums.
FunctionalFunctional ingredient, not graded for skin benefits
Sign in to save and follow
Nonionic cellulose ether thickener for aqueous gels and serums.
What it does
Provides clear viscosity with good electrolyte tolerance versus some carbomers.
The evidence
Functional ingredient (not graded for skin benefits): CIR-reviewed cellulose polymer. Credible chemical identity and cosmetic-use context come from CIR/SCCS/manufacturer INCI definitions and databases such as SpecialChem/PubChem[1].
How to use it
Expect this as a supporting INCI line item unless labeled as a featured active.
What it does in the formula
Functional ingredient — not graded for skin benefits
Nonionic cellulose ether thickener for aqueous gels and serums.[1]
Safety & limits
Source and region, always
all — Used in cosmetics within conventional leave-on/rinse-off levels; see cited safety literature.[1] CA US EU UK
Sources · 2
Numbered as cited in the text
- [1]Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Hydroxyethyl Cellulose. CIR (2016)regulator
- [2]SpecialChem. SpecialChem INCI profile: Hydroxyethylcellulose. SpecialChem (2024)other
Revision history
18 Sept 2026Drafted by botTheSkindex Desk