Adjusting Hair Wax Formulation

Question

I have questions about my hair wax formulation: How can I adjust the texture to be denser, matte (less shiny/moist), and still break apart into stringy/viscous strands when rubbed? What is the specific formula used when incorporating Activated Charcoal powder that resulted in a rough texture? Is it necessary to add a solvent like Tween 20 or Tween 60 when adding perfume or essential oil to my current formula? Can PVP-K90 be added during the cool-down phase (50-40°C) after emulsification? What is the difference between using a lab hot plate and a household induction stove for heating formulations?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Subject: Adjusting Hair Wax Texture

Thank you for your questions regarding adjusting your hair wax formulation. Here are the answers based on the staff's recommendations:

Adjusting Wax Texture: To achieve a denser, matte texture that breaks apart and becomes stringy/viscous when rubbed, the staff recommends trying to increase the proportion of Ceteareth-25.
Activated Charcoal Dissolution: To address the issue of rough texture from Activated Charcoal powder, the staff needs more information. Could you please provide the specific formula you used when incorporating Activated Charcoal?
Adding Perfume/Essential Oil: For the formula you provided, it is not necessary to add a solvent like Tween 20 or Tween 60 when adding perfume or essential oil, as the formula already contains sufficient emulsifiers.
Adding PVP-K90 during Cool Down: Yes, PVP-K90 can be added during the cool-down phase (50-40°C) after emulsification. However, ensure thorough mixing for a sufficient duration to guarantee complete dissolution, which may take longer than at higher temperatures.
Lab Hot Plate vs. Induction Stove: The main difference lies in temperature control. Lab hot plates are designed for precise and consistent temperature maintenance, whereas household induction stoves primarily provide heat without fine temperature regulation. While you can use an induction stove, it lacks the precise temperature control offered by a lab hot plate.

We hope this information is helpful!