Ethylcellulose
molecular structure · PubChem
AKA: Aquacoat, Surelease, Ethyl celluloseEC, Ethyl cellulose viscosity 20cP, DA-63306
Synthetic
Occlusive
Clean
Cellulose, ethyl ether
Formula
C20H38O11
Mol. Weight
454.5
CAS #
9004-57-3
Form
Powder
Functions
Binding
Film Forming
Creates a physical seal on skin to lock moisture in and keep irritants out. The "slugging" ingredient — barrier protection.
Viscosity Controlling
Moisturizing
Wound Healing
Improves Elasticity
Creates protective layer
Holds ingredients together
Controls product thickness
Traditional Use
Developed in the early 20th century as a cellulose derivative. Used in cosmetics as a film-former and thickening agent in haircare products, masques, and waterproof formulations.
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
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: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR