Using Ethylcellulose as a Thickener in Balm

Yes, Ethylcellulose can be used as a thickener in a balm formulation.

Ethylcellulose acts as an Oil Thickener (Oil Gelling), which helps to increase the viscosity of the oil phase in a formulation. Most balms are oil-based or fat-based formulations.

• Function: Ethylcellulose dissolves in oil or ethanol when heated (around 70-85°C) and helps the formulation thicken upon cooling.
• Selection: You can choose Ethylcellulose with different viscosity grades depending on the desired thickness of the balm, such as Ethylcellulose (100 cps.), Ethylcellulose (200 cps.), or Ethylcellulose (300 cps.).
• Note: Other gelling agents like Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) and Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) are used for creating gels in the water phase (water-based) and are therefore not suitable for oil-based balm formulations.