Differences Between Pro Polymer and SugarThick for Gel Texture

SugarThick™ (PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate) and Pro Polymer™ (ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER) are thickeners with the following key differences:

• Texture: SugarThick™ provides a clear gel texture and does not result in a pudding-like consistency. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a non-lumpy gel. Pro Polymer™, on the other hand, can create a creamy or pudding-like gel texture, especially when used at higher concentrations (above 3%).

• Properties:

  • SugarThick™ functions solely as a thickener and is not an emulsifier. It is particularly effective in formulations containing surfactants (like liquid soaps, face washes, shampoos). A special feature of SugarThick™ is its ability to increase viscosity across various surfactant types and help reduce irritation caused by harsh surfactants.
  • Pro Polymer™ acts as both a thickener and an emulsifier. It can be used to create gel texture in water-based formulas and creamy texture in formulas containing both water and oil.

• Suitability for Cleansing Products: SugarThick™ is highly recommended for skin cleansing products containing surfactants because it is specifically designed to work well within surfactant systems, providing a pleasant, non-greasy texture. It can also support claims of being a natural-derived ingredient (Vegetable-Derived). Pro Polymer™ is a general thickener suitable for various formulas, but it does not offer the specific benefits for surfactant systems that SugarThick™ does.

• Pro Polymer™ Silk (Polyquaternium 37) is another variant in the Pro Polymer family. It provides a soft, smooth (silky), and non-sticky feel, making it suitable for skin and hair conditioning products. It can incorporate a small amount of oil or silicone (up to 10%) but is less resistant to electrolytes than standard Pro Polymer™ and requires blending for gel formation.

In summary, if you are looking for a clear, non-pudding gel texture specifically for cleansing products containing surfactants, SugarThick™ would be a more suitable choice.