2. Personal Care In cosmetics and personal care products, hydroxyethyl cellulose acts as a thickener and stabilizer. It is commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and gels. By improving product consistency and texture, HEC aids in the formulation of high-quality products that consumers expect. Moreover, due to its non-ionic nature, it is less likely to irritate the skin, making it suitable for sensitive formulations.