Balm Texture Formulation and Thickening Agents
Question
How to formulate a balm to achieve a specific texture, including recommended thickening agents (waxes, butters) and their typical usage percentages?
Answer
I cannot see the image you attached. The texture of the balm you want to make depends on the type and amount of thickening agents (such as Waxes or Butters) used.
Common ingredients used for balms include:
- Beeswax: Provides a relatively firm and pliable balm texture.
- Carnauba Wax: Gives a harder texture than Beeswax and adds gloss.
- Candelilla Wax: A vegan alternative, provides firmness similar to Beeswax but is slightly less pliable.
- Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter, Mango Butter: These solid butters help soften the balm texture and add skin-conditioning properties.
The percentage of these ingredients varies depending on the desired hardness and feel (texture). Generally, you might use anywhere from 5% to 20% or more. For example, a very hard balm for a tin might use a higher percentage of waxes than a softer balm for a lip balm stick.
To provide more specific advice, could you please describe the desired balm texture (e.g., very hard, soft, creamy, waxy) or mention the names of any specific thickening ingredients you are considering? I can then provide more targeted information.