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Moumoujus

METHYL ETHYLCELLULOSE.

Valuable CAS 9004-59-5 / BINDING, FILM FORMING, VISCOSITY CONTROLLING

Methyl Ethylcellulose is a high-performance cellulose ether engineered for precision skincare formulations. It primarily functions as a thickening and stabilizing agent, while also forming a breathable film to visibly refine skin texture and significantly enhance surface hydration.

Summary

Viscosity Controlling Film Forming Binding Thickening Stabilizing Hydrating Skin Texture Refining

Science

Mechanism of Action

On the skin, Methyl Ethylcellulose operates through multiple mechanisms: it creates a breathable polymeric film that subtly contracts upon cooling, delivering an immediate texture-refining effect. This compound also exhibits strong water-binding capabilities, actively attracting and retaining moisture at the skin's surface, thereby boosting hydration levels. Furthermore, its inherent rheological properties contribute to the desired viscosity and stability of cosmetic emulsions, simultaneously improving the product's overall skin feel and comfort.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Insufficient-data confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 2 – 13
0 7 14

Stability

Methyl Ethylcellulose exhibits robust stability across a broad pH range, specifically between 2.0 and 13.0. While stable at room temperature, it is important to note that acid-catalyzed hydrolysis can lead to a reduction in viscosity at pH values below 3.0.

Conflicts

  • Aminacrine hydrochloride (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Chlorocresol (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Mercuric chloride (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Phenol (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Resorcinol (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Tannic acid (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Silver nitrate (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Cetylpyridinium chloride (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • p-Hydroxybenzoic acid (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • p-Aminobenzoic acid (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Methylparaben (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Propylparaben (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Butylparaben (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • Highly surface-active compounds such as tetracaine and dibutoline sulfate, which may induce complexation (inferred from methylcellulose data)
  • High concentrations of electrolytes, which can increase viscosity through a 'salting out' effect (inferred from methylcellulose data)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
100%
Sensitization risk Low

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has affirmed Methyl Ethylcellulose as safe for use in cosmetics. Studies indicate minimal ocular irritation and non-to-slightly irritating dermal responses, even at concentrations up to 100%. No mutagenic potential has been observed. It is also recognized by the FDA as a food additive (21 CFR 172.872).

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Methyl Ethylcellulose is a valuable ingredient, offering robust formulation benefits like thickening and stabilization, alongside direct skin advantages such as hydration enhancement and texture refinement, all within an excellent safety profile.

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