Ingredient Directory
Low ConcernVegan

Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose

HEEC / Modified ethylcellulose

Safety Notes

Cellulose derivative; water-soluble thickener; low sensitization risk; used in aqueous gel formulations

Function & Common Use

Function

Viscosity Agent

Category

Viscosity Agent

Common In

Gels aqueous viscosity building

Origin

Semi-synthetic (cellulose)

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

No limit

EU Cosmetics Reg.

No limit

US FDA (21 CFR)

No specific 21 CFR cosmetic limit identified in source checked

Korea (MFDS)

No specific MFDS limit identified in source checked; verify if ingredient is used in a Korean functional cosmetic category

Pregnancy: No specific restriction identified in source checked; standard cosmetic use

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose safe to use in skincare?

Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. Cellulose derivative; water-soluble thickener; low sensitization risk; used in aqueous gel formulations

Is Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose allowed in India?

Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. No concentration limit is specified for India.

What is Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose used for in cosmetics?

Hydroxyethyl Ethylcellulose functions as: Viscosity Agent. It is commonly found in: Gels aqueous viscosity building.

TCS Assessment
Low Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
Permitted
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Cosmetic ingredient; standard TGA cosmetic framework applies; no therapeutic goods listing required unless therapeutic claims are made
Canada (NHPID)
Not specifically listed as restricted cosmetic ingredient in NHPID source checked; standard Health Canada cosmetic notification applies

Identifiers

CASN/A
ECN/A

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