Low ConcernVegan

Hydroxyethylcellulose

Hydroxyethyl cellulose

Safety Notes

COSMOS-accepted; plant-based; well tolerated

Function & Common Use

Function

Viscosity controlling / Film forming

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 Hydroxyethylcellulose safe to use in skincare?

Hydroxyethylcellulose has a Low concern rating from The Clean Sheet. COSMOS-accepted; plant-based; well tolerated

Is Hydroxyethylcellulose allowed in India?

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

What is Hydroxyethylcellulose used for in cosmetics?

Hydroxyethylcellulose functions as: Viscosity controlling / Film forming. It is commonly found in: Gels, serums, shampoos.

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

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

CAS9004-62-0

Want to check if your product contains Hydroxyethylcellulose?

Analyse a Product

More Thickener / Gelling Agent Ingredients

Carbomer

Low Concern

Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer

Low Concern

Xanthan Gum

Low Concern

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose