Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
Reviewed by Daisy · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Hydroxyethylcellulose, Cetyl Alcohol
Derivative of fatty alcohol cetearyl alcohol and a thicker oil known as 2-ethylhexanoic acid | Works as a rich emollient
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
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What Is Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose?
Cetyl hydroxyethylcellulose is a derivative of fatty alcohol cetearyl alcohol and a thicker oil known as 2-ethylhexanoic acid. Works as a rich emollient and is excellent for dry skin.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Cosmetics, February 2016, ePublication [URL_MISSING]
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International Journal of Toxicology, Supplement 3, November-December 2015, pages 61S-73S [URL_MISSING]
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https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hexadecyl-2-ethylhexanoate [https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Hexadecyl-2-ethylhexanoate]
From the Clinic
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Centaurea Cyanus Seed
Plant-derived abrasive exfoliant from cornflower seeds
Centella Asiatica Derivatives
Isolated cica compounds for targeted skin soothing
Cetearyl Olivate
An oily, somewhat waxy ester of cetearyl alcohol and the fatty
Charcoal
Primarily carbon substance formed by charring organic material
Chelating Agent
Any of numerous ingredients that bind with metal ions or metallic compounds | Prevents metal ions from adhering to skin, hair, or clothing
Chloroacetic Acid
A chemical exfoliant that dissolves dead skin cells to reveal smoother texture
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