Choosing Mineral Oil Viscosity for Lotion
Asked by: cxtkhxt
On: February 15, 2023
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
When formulating a lotion, which viscosity of mineral oil (e.g., 5cst, 15cst, 26cst, 32cst, 68cst) is most suitable, and how do different viscosities affect the final product's texture and feel?
Answer
Choosing Mineral Oil for Lotion
When making a lotion, mineral oil is a good emollient to add softness and smoothness to the skin. The different viscosities (cst) affect the feel and spreadability of the lotion.
- Lower viscosity (e.g., 5cst, 15cst): These feel lighter and spread more easily. They are good for lighter lotions or those intended for faster absorption.
- Medium viscosity (e.g., 26cst, 32cst): These offer a balance between lightness and richness. They are often a good starting point for general-purpose lotions.
- Higher viscosity (e.g., 68cst): These feel heavier and provide a richer, more occlusive barrier on the skin. They are suitable for richer creams or lotions intended for very dry skin.
For a typical lotion formulation, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) Light (26cst) or Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) Medium (32cst) are often good choices to provide a balanced feel. You can also blend different viscosities to achieve your desired texture and skin feel.
