Preparing HEC Gel Base with Heat for Heat-Sensitive Ingredients
Question
Can Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) be dissolved in water at 60-70°C and stirred until it becomes a gel, then allowed to cool before adding other ingredients? I am concerned that some ingredients might degrade.
Answer
Using Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) in Formulations
Yes, you can prepare a gel base using Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) by dissolving it in water heated to 60-70°C and stirring until a gel forms. After the gel base has cooled down, you can then incorporate heat-sensitive ingredients.
This method is suitable because HEC requires heat (around 70°C) to dissolve properly and form a gel. By creating the gel base first and allowing it to cool, you avoid exposing heat-sensitive components to high temperatures, preserving their stability and efficacy. This is a common and effective technique in cosmetic formulation, similar to how some other gel bases or ingredients might be prepared.
Relevant products include:
- Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (4500mPa.s)
- Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2800mPa.s)
- Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2000mPa.s) (Super Clear Gel)
