Hydroxyethylcellulose is a water-soluble polymer derived from cellulose used as a thickening agent for aqueous cosmetic formulations. It is used to thicken shampoos, body washes, shower gels. It can also be used to create large bubbles as it is water-soluble but provides structural strength to the soap bubble. Its hydro-affinity causes it to be used with hydrophobic drugs in capsule formulations to help the drugs' dissolution in the body.