Carboxymethyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
AKA “Modified Cellulose, Carboxymethyl Hydroxyethylcellulose”
Ingredient
Ingredient Facts
Carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose
AKA: Modified Cellulose
Ingredient · Emulsion Stabilising · EWG: 1
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
Cellulose, carboxymethyl 2-hydroxyethyl ether, sodium salt
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
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR