Carboxymethyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
AKA “Modified Cellulose, Carboxymethyl Hydroxyethylcellulose”
Synthetic
Ingredient Facts
Carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose
AKA: Modified Cellulose
Synthetic · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 1
Plant-Derived Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Synthetic
Clean
A natural plant-derived thickener that creates a smooth texture and helps keep product ingredients blended together without separating.
CAS #
9088-04-4
Form
Powder
See origin →
Functions
Binding
Emulsion Stabilising
Forces oil and water to stay mixed instead of separating into layers. The unsung hero holding your lotion together.
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Holds Formula Together
Stabilizes Emulsion
Creates Protective Barrier
Controls Viscosity
Antioxidant Protection
Reduces Inflammation
Locks In Moisture
Traditional Use
A semi-synthetic cellulose derivative developed in the 20th century as a thickening and film-forming agent for cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Created to provide viscosity control and texture stabilization in modern formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Melanin-Rich Skin
Suitable
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Feb 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR