Hydroxyethyl Cellulose

Hello guys, I need help.

I have failed so many samples now, I think it’s time to borrow your brains.
I’m having problem with thickening my surfactant system with HEC.

Formula is around this:

Phase A
69.5% Water
12% Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate 
12% Cocamidopropyl betaine
4% Coco glucoside
1% Euxyl PE 9010

Phase B
1.5% HEC 

Phase C
q.s. Sodium Hydroxide 30% to pH>8

1) I combine phase A under low shear (overhead mixer) until homogenous.
2) I add slowly HEC until fully dispersed and homogenous. Mix under low shear for another minute or two. ( I’m making sure pH is<7 )
3) Add phase C to pH > 8 (usually end up around 9)
4) I mix and mix and mix. (I do not lower the pH to get the HEC time)

I come next day and there is this HEC layer floating on the top or sitting on the bottom. 

I tried mixing it for longer, shorted, increasing pH higher. 
Nothing helped. Am I missing something? 

Thanks guys!