Exploring Meilose and HPMC for Enhanced Formulation Performance in Pharmaceutical Applications
MHEC also has excellent water retention properties. It can absorb and hold onto water molecules, which helps to keep the skin and hair moisturized. This is particularly beneficial in products such as hair conditioners and face masks, where hydration is key. The water retention properties of MHEC also help to improve the overall performance of the product, as it ensures that the active ingredients are delivered to the skin or hair effectively.
Generally speaking, the water retention of MHEC is higher than that of HPMC, but there is no big difference. Considering the cost and price, if there is not high requirements for the gel temperature, customers generally prefer HPMC. Furthermore, the viscosity stability, mildew resistance, and dispersibility of MHEC are generally higher than that of HPMC.
Methyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MHEC) is also used as a moisturizer and surfactant in cosmetics, baby lotions, shampoos, and bath oils. A surfactant is a wetting agent that lowers the surface tension of liquids and allows them to spread over a surface. It can be used as an emulsifier that keeps water-based and oil-based ingredients mixed in cosmetics.