Hydroxyethylcellulose
Skim through
What it does: binding, emulsion stabilising, film forming, stabilising, viscosity controlling
Also called: HEC
The science
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a helper ingredient that can thicken up cosmetic products. It's derived from cellulose, the major component of the cell wall of green plants, and is compatible with most co-ingredients and gives a very good slip to formulas.
Benefits for your hair
Promotes gentle cleansing
Hydroxyethylcellulose helps to enhance gentle cleansing properties of shampoos by enhancing the foaming and lather formation.
Promotes softness and definition
Hydroxyethylcellulose gives a good hold to hair, making it soft and smooth without making it greasy and flaky.
Provides a protective layer
Hydroxyethylcellulose gets easily and evenly spread on the surface of hair, forming a thin protective coating over it.
TLDR
Hydroxyethylcellulose is a gentle cleansing agent that thickens products. It gives a good slip to formulas and promotes softness and definition while providing a protective layer to hair as well.