murphyCetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Cetyl HEC, Hydroxyethyl cellulose cetyl ether
Synthetic
Occlusive
Emulsifier
Clean
OriginDerived from plant cellulose, typically sourced from wood pulp or cotton linters. Modified through etherification and hydroxyethyl substitution to increase water-solubility and thickening properties.
Cellulose, 2-hydroxyethyl hexadecyl ethers
CAS #
80455-45-4
Form
Powder
Skin Types
●all-skin-types, gentle
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
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
Emulsion Stabilising, Film Forming, Viscosity Controlling, Anti
Inflammatory, Moisturizing, Boosts Collagen, Creates protective layer, Keeps product blended, Controls product thickness
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewed1 paper →
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
Verified Jun 2026
Data: CosIng · EWG · CIR