HEC – Crystal Clear is an upgraded, high‑purity grade of Hydroxyethyl Cellulose designed to replace standard HEC (Hydroxyethyl Cellulose )the company carries. Compared to the standard HEC (Hydroxyethyl Cellulose), HEC – Crystal Clear hydrates faster, builds viscosity more efficiently, and produces exceptionally crystal‑clear gels in water.
Because this grade is slightly thicker and more efficient, formulators transitioning from standard HEC should conduct a pilot batch and adjust usage levels to match the desired viscosity and texture of their specific formulation.
DESCRIPTION: Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a non‑ionic, water‑soluble cellulose ether used as a rheology modifier, thickener, and film former in cosmetic formulations. The Crystal Clear grade is optimized to produce high‑clarity, smooth, transparent gels with excellent flow and sensory aesthetics. It hydrates easily in water and provides stable viscosity across a wide pH and temperature range.
KEY CHARACTERS
- Non‑ionic polymer compatible with most surfactants and actives
- Medium viscosity grade (3400–5000 cps)
- Forms crystal‑clear gels
- Excellent electrolyte tolerance
- Cold‑ and hot‑water soluble
- Smooth, non‑tacky sensory profile
FEATURES & BENEFITS
- Crystal clarity — ideal for transparent gels, serums, and surfactant systems
- Rheology modification — provides stable viscosity and pseudoplastic flow
- Enhanced spreadability — improves slip and reduces tack
- Film‑forming — leaves a flexible, non‑flaking film on skin and hair
- Electrolyte tolerance — maintains viscosity in salt‑rich systems
- Surfactant compatibility — stable in shampoos, body washes, and cleansers
- pH versatility — stable from pH 2–12
APPLICATIONS: Clear gels (face gels, hydrogel serums, hair gels). Shampoos & body washes. Creams & lotions (as secondary thickener/stabilizer). Toothpaste (high salt systems). Suspension systems (beads, pigments, exfoliants).
FORMULATION GUIDELINES
INCI: Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
USE RATE: 1.0 – 3.0% (0.5–1.5% for clear gels. 0.3–0.8% for emulsion systems).
SOLUBILITY: Water: Fully soluble (cold or hot). Alcohol: Tolerates up to ~60% ethanol. Oils: Insoluble
Hydration Methods for HEC – Crystal Clear
- Cold‑Process Hydration (pH‑Triggered Method): This method is ideal for cold‑processed gels and serums.
- Add HEC – Crystal Clear to the water phase under continuous stirring.
- Allow the polymer to fully disperse until the mixture becomes uniform and free of dry pockets.
- After full dispersion raise the pH to ≥ 7.0.
- Increasing the pH activates hydration, causing the gel to thicken and clarify.
- Continue mixing until the gel reaches full viscosity. Adjust to final pH only after the gel is homogenous and no graininess is perceived.
- Hot‑Process Hydration (Thermal Activation Method): Preferred when faster dissolution is needed or when working with heat‑tolerant formulas.
- Add HEC – Crystal Clear to the heated water phase.
- Heating accelerates polymer wetting and dissolution.
- As the batch cools, the polymer fully hydrates, developing its final viscosity and clarity.
- Avoid prolonged exposure above 80°C, as excessive heat can degrade the polymer and reduce viscosity.
pH STABILITY: Stable from pH 2.0 to 12.0
TEMPERATURE TOLERANCE: Add to the water phase and raise the pH to 7.0 and above with continuous stirring. Adjust the pH only after the gel is homogenous without graininess. Alternatively, the powder can be added to the heated water phase. Heat speeds up dissolution – as the solution cools the gel will hydrate fully. Avoid prolonged exposure above 80°C to prevent viscosity loss
APPEARANCE: Powder: Free‑flowing, off‑white. Solution/Gel: Crystal clear, smooth, non‑tacky
STORAGE: Store in a cool, dry place. Keep container tightly sealed to prevent moisture uptake. Shelf life: 24–36 months under proper storage
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Viscosity: 3400–5000 cps (2% solution)
- Ionic Charge: Non‑ionic
- Molecular Nature: Cellulose ether
- Clarity: Produces crystal‑clear gels
- Flow Behavior: Pseudoplastic (shear‑thinning)
- Sheer Tolerance: High-sheer stable
This is a cosmetic raw material and is meant for external use only in cosmetic formulations. As with all of our materials, it should not be taken internally. Treasure Actives is not responsible for product compatibility. We advise everyone to test ingredients for performance, compatibility, and safety prior to committing to larger quantities. Keep all products out of reach of children. For more information, please see our terms and conditions page.
