The 4 in the sequence pertains to the thread count per inch (TPI). A higher thread count usually equates to better holding power and faster insertion A higher thread count usually equates to better holding power and faster insertion
- In the realm of personal care, HEC serves as a gentle yet effective additive in skincare formulations. It provides a smooth texture, improves product stability, and ensures active ingredients are evenly distributed without causing irritation—attributes particularly cherished in natural and organic beauty lines. Moreover, in hair care products, HEC acts as a protective film that shields the hair shaft while providing manageability and shine, all while being easily washed away, leaving no ecological footprint.
- Do not touch the container tip to the eye, lid, or other skin.
- In the paint and coatings sector, HEC is used as a thickener and stabilizer. It ensures a smooth, consistent finish and prevents settling or sagging during application. It also provides excellent film formation and improves the resistance to water and weathering.

While HPMC is generally considered safe, some people may experience mild side effects, especially when consumed in high doses. These side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, or diarrhea. However, these effects are usually mild and short-lived and disappear once supplementation is stopped or the dose is reduced.
One particular manufacture (naming no names, but one of the big ones) lists it as E464 without the full name…it’s the same thing.

hydroxyethyl cellulose sds.
The applicant claims that the feed additive HPMC is specified to be manufactured to meet the specifications set for its use as a food additive. The main specifications as food and feed additive are: methoxyl groups ≥ 19 and ≤ 30%, hydroxypropoxyl groups ≥ 3 and ≤ 12%, loss on drying < 10%, sulfated ash < 1.5% (for products with viscosities of 50 mPa.s or above) or < 3% (for products with viscosities below 50 mPa.s). Five batches of the additive were analysed for some of the above specifications, resulting in: methoxyl groups (four batches) 23.5–29.2%, hydroxypropoxyl groups (four batches) 5.2–8.4%, loss on drying (one batch) 1.2% and sulfated ash (one batch) 0.6%. Only statements, without figures, of compliance with the specifications for some impurities (heavy metals, arsenic, solvents, microbial purity) were provided. Information on other impurities ((pesticides, dioxins, dioxin-like and non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls, mycotoxins, botanical impurities) was not provided.