Understanding Gel Scrubs and Film Formers

Regarding your question about the gel scrub product and whether Hydroxyethyl Cellulose and Acrylate copolymer are the film formers, here is an explanation based on the properties of these ingredients:

• Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC): Based on product information, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose primarily functions as a thickener or gel-forming agent. It is used to create the gel texture in cosmetic formulations, including clear gels. It is generally not considered a film former.

• Acrylate Copolymer: This is a broad category of polymers. Some Acrylate copolymers function as thickeners, similar to Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (for example, Acrylates Crosspolymer). However, other types of Acrylate copolymers are specifically designed to act as film formers. For instance, Acrylates/C12-22 Alkyl Methacrylate Copolymer is described as a film former that provides water and wear resistance.

In "invisible scrub" gels, the "scrub" or exfoliating effect often comes from polymers that form a film on the skin and then, upon rubbing, physically ball up or peel off, taking dead skin cells with them. This film-forming property is key to the mechanism.

Therefore, it is likely that Hydroxyethyl Cellulose is used in the gel scrub for its thickening properties to create the gel base. A specific type of Acrylate copolymer (or another polymer with film-forming properties) is likely the ingredient responsible for the film formation and the subsequent "scrub" effect when rubbed.

Regarding whether you can make it yourself: Yes, ingredients like Hydroxyethyl Cellulose and various Acrylate copolymers are available for cosmetic formulation. However, successfully formulating a stable and effective gel scrub with the desired texture and exfoliating action requires knowledge of ingredient compatibility, formulation techniques, and testing. It is possible to formulate, but it requires expertise beyond simply mixing ingredients.