Hydroxyethylcellulose
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Cellulose
Naturally derived thickening agent | Comes from cellulose, a sugar found in the cell walls of plants
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
Hydroxyethylcellulose products at Skintique
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What Is Hydroxyethylcellulose?
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a thickener typically used as a binding agent or emulsifier. It is derived from cellulose, a naturally occurring polysaccharide (complex sugar) found in the cell walls of plants. In clinical settings, it is used in wound healing applications and to help deliver drugs (such as antimicrobial agents) to skin.
Hydroxyethylcellulose in its raw for is a white, odorless, tasteless powder. It is currently used in concentrations as low as 0.0002%, and as high as 39%. The independent Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel has ruled hydroxyethylcellulose safe as used in cosmetics, even in amounts much higher than what would occur from normal human exposure.
The United States Food and Drug Administration has also approved hydroxyethylcellulose as an indirect food additive as an adhesive component and in non-water-soluble form, as a food packaging material.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
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Pharmacia, December 2019, pages 187-193 [URL not available]
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Journal of Physics, June 2018, pages 1-7 [URL not available]
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Reference Module in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences, 2018, ePublication [URL not available]
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European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, May 2015, pages 146-154 [URL not available]
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https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/hydroxyethylcellulose [https://cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/hydroxyethylcellulose]
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http://www.beauty-review.nl/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Amended-Safety-Assessment-of-Cellulose-and-Related-Polymers-as-used-in-Cosmetics.pdf [http://www.beauty-review.nl/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Amended-Safety-Assessment-of-Cellulose-and-Related-Polymers-as-used-in-Cosmetics.pdf]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Hydrolyzed Corn Starch
Modified version of corn starch known for its humectant (hydrating) properties | Also functions as an opacifying agent and/or binding agent (to mesh ingredients together)
Hydrolyzed Jojoba Protein
Derived from jojoba seeds | Has hydrating and conditioning properties
Hydrolyzed Quinoa
Complete protein for skin and hair repair
Hydroxypropyl Guar
Legume-based polysaccharide derived from guar gum | Functions as a thickening agent, film-former, and texture enhancer
Isoparaffin
Saturated white wax derived from petroleum | Highly purified for use in cosmetics
Isostearyl Alcohol
Emollient— provides long-lasting moisture and softens skin | Viscosity control—helps improve product texture and flow
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