Natrosol 250 HHR PC is hydroxyethylcellulose – a non-ionic, water-soluble cellulose derivative intended for adjusting the rheology of cosmetic formulations. It is produced by chemical modification of plant cellulose: the cellulose is first activated in an alkaline medium and subsequently reacts with ethylene oxide, forming a partially substituted cellulose ether with hydroxyethyl groups. This modification improves water solubility and makes it possible to create clear to transparent gel systems with a pleasant slip.
The abbreviation HEC stands for Hydroxyethylcellulose, i.e. hydroxyethylcellulose. The designation HHR for Natrosol 250 denotes a very high-viscosity grade with delayed hydration: HH indicates very high viscosity and R indicates a surface-treated type with slower onset of hydration, which allows the powder to disperse more easily in water without forming lumps. The abbreviation PC means Personal Care, i.e. a quality grade intended for personal care and cosmetic applications.
It is a thickener, stabilizer, film-forming agent and viscosity modifier, particularly suitable for aqueous gels, serums, cleansing products, shampoos, conditioners and emulsion systems, where it helps to create a smooth, uniform and easily processable texture.

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Key benefits

• Effective thickening of the aqueous phase – increases the viscosity of aqueous solutions and helps to form stable gels.
• Non-ionic character – is well compatible with many cationic, anionic and non-ionic cosmetic ingredients.
• Good tolerance to electrolytes – also suitable for formulations that contain salts, surfactants or active substances in the aqueous phase.
• Clear to transparent solutions – with proper hydration it enables the preparation of visually clear gels and serums.
• Pseudoplastic behavior – during mixing or spreading the formulation spreads more easily, and after resting it again retains a thicker consistency.
• Film-forming effect – can leave a fine protective film on the skin and hair without a pronounced greasy feel.
• Improved formulation stability – helps to limit particle sedimentation and supports a uniform texture of the finished product.
• Suitable for cold and hot process – soluble in both cold and hot water, with the R type facilitating dispersion without immediate clumping.

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Suitable for products such as

• face gels and moisturizing gel serums,
• water-based serums with humectants, extracts and active substances,
• shower gels, cleansing gels and foaming preparations,
• shampoos and mild hair cleansing products,
• conditioners and hair gels,
• emulsion creams and lotions to support viscosity and stability,
• shaving gels and foams, where slip and a more stable foam are desired,
• masks, peeling gels and suspension systems with fine insoluble particles.

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Use in formulation

• The recommended dosage in cosmetic formulations is usually approximately 0,2–2,0 %, depending on the desired viscosity, product type and content of electrolytes or surfactants.
• For light serums and fluid gels a lower dosage is often used, while higher amounts may be necessary for thicker gels or stabilization systems.
• It is soluble in both cold and hot water. The best processing method is to sprinkle the powder evenly into the intensely stirred aqueous phase and allow it to hydrate fully.
• The R type has delayed hydration, so it is first well dispersed and only then gradually increases the viscosity. This helps to limit lump formation.
• It is miscible with common humectants such as glycerin, propanediol or sorbitol; pre-dispersing the powder in glycerin can facilitate its incorporation into the aqueous phase.
• It is compatible with many surfactant systems used in shampoos, shower gels and cleansing products.
• It is compatible with a wide pH range of common cosmetic formulations, most often approximately in the range of pH 4–8.
• In emulsions it is usually added to the aqueous phase as an auxiliary thickener and stabilizer, not as the primary emulsifier.
• After incorporation it is advisable to allow the formulation time for complete hydration and viscosity equilibration; the final thickness may only manifest after a certain time.
• For formulations with higher content of salts, acids, cationic conditioning agents or a high content of active ingredients it is recommended to verify stability in a small pilot batch.

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Safety and storage

• When working with the powdered raw material it is recommended to avoid excessive dust formation and not to inhale dust particles.
• Use clean utensils and observe standard hygiene rules when manufacturing cosmetics.
• The finished formulation containing water must be appropriately preserved according to the overall composition of the formula.
• Store in a dry place, well closed, away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture.
• After opening always close the packaging carefully so that the raw material does not absorb moisture and its flowability is not impaired.

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FAQ

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Also see other thickeners and stabilizers offered by Handymade.sk.