Author: Kevin Publish Time: 2022-12-26 Origin: Qingdao Unionchem Co., Ltd.
With the global cosmetic thickeners market projected to reach USD 23.6 billion by 2033 (CAGR 5.8%), formulators face critical choices between natural polymers like Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) and Xanthan Gum. As a leading Chinese manufacturer with ISO 9001, GMP, and REACH certifications, Qingdao Unionchem delivers 10,000 MT annually of cosmetic-grade thickeners, trusted by L’Oréal and Shiseido for their unparalleled functionality and clean label compliance.
Parameter | Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) | Xanthan Gum | Cosmetic Advantage |
Viscosity (1% Solution) | 4500–5000 cps | 1200–1800 cps | HEC for rich creams; Xanthan for lightweight lotions |
Clarity | >95% transmittance (400nm) | 70–85% transmittance | HEC ideal for transparent serums and sunscreens |
pH Stability | 2.0–12.0 | 3.0–11.0 | HEC superior in acidic formulations (vitamin C serums) |
Heat Resistance | Up to 60°C (short-term) | Up to 120°C (autoclaving stable) | Xanthan better for tropical climates/Southeast Asia |
Ionic Compatibility | Non-ionic (compatible with all actives) | Anionic (incompatible with cationic surfactants) | HEC safer for complex formulations |
HEC Recommendation: 0.5% Natrosol™ 250 HHR creates crystal clear vitamin C serums with 95% transmittance (Case Study: Korean Cosmetic Brand, 2024).
Advantage: Maintains stability with 10% niacinamide and 2% salicylic acid without precipitation.
Xanthan Gum Application: 0.3% addition improves anti-dandruff shampoo stability, preventing zinc pyrithione sedimentation for 12 months .
Synergistic Blend: 0.2% HEC + 0.1% Xanthan Gum in conditioner reduces static by 40% while maintaining viscosity .
HEC Benefit: 0.4% addition enhances UV filter dispersion (ZnO/TiO₂), reducing white cast by 35%.
Xanthan Use Case: 0.3% in water-resistant sunscreen maintains SPF 50+ after 80 minutes of swimming .
Vertical Integration: From cotton linter processing to finished powder, ensuring batch consistency (viscosity variation ±50 cps).
Customization Capabilities: Tailored viscosity grades (5000–50000 cps) and particle sizes (80–200 mesh) for cold/hot process formulations.
Sustainability Commitment: 30% lower carbon footprint than synthetic thickeners (LCA verified, 2024).
Regulatory Expertise: Compliant with EU 1223/2009, FDA CFR 21, and China Cosmetic Regulation .
Technical Support: In-house application lab provides free formulation testing (e.g., stability testing at 45°C/75% RH for 3 months).
Global Logistics: 7-day delivery to Hamburg/LA ports with temperature-controlled packaging for sensitive ingredients.
Gain access to:
✅ HEC (Natrosol™ equivalent) and Xanthan Gum samples (500g each)
✅ Formulation guides for 10+ cosmetic categories
✅ Certificate of Analysis and MSDS
Contact our cosmetic specialists today:
Email: sales@unionchem.com.cn
Phone: +86-13953383796
Website: www.unionchem.com.cn
"Trusted by 50+ global cosmetic brands—where science meets beauty."
Certifications: ISO 9001, GMP, REACH, HALAL
Production Capacity: 10,000 MT/year
Lead Time: 5–7 days for standard grades
