Creating a "Silk Fiber" Texture in Formulations

To achieve a "silk fiber" texture in cosmetic formulations, a combination of specific silicone ingredients and powders is typically used. Based on the example formulas provided, the key components include:

• Silicone Gel Ultra Clear: This provides a soft, smooth, and light feel, enhancing spreadability and giving a matte look.
• Cyclomethicone: A lightweight silicone that evaporates quickly, leaving a silky-soft feel.
• Silicone Blender: Acts as a binder for different silicones and helps stabilize silicone-based formulas.
• SiliSolve™: A water-to-silicone binder, useful if your formula includes a water phase.
• Titanium Dioxide Nano EasyDisperse™ and Silk Mica Powder: These powders contribute to the texture, coverage, and feel of the final product.

Mixing Process

The general method involves combining the silicone components first. Powders like Titanium Dioxide and Silk Mica Powder should be dispersed within the silicone or oil phase of your formula. If your formula contains water and uses SiliSolve™ to bind the water and silicone phases, gradually add the water phase to the silicone/oil phase while continuously blending or stirring until homogeneous.

There is no specific temperature requirement mentioned for mixing these ingredients; they can typically be processed at room temperature.

Solubility

Silicone Gel Ultra Clear, Cyclomethicone, Silicone Blender, and SiliSolve™ are soluble in silicones and/or oils. Titanium Dioxide and Silk Mica Powder are solid powders that need to be properly dispersed within the formula rather than dissolved.

Preservatives and Sunscreen

• Preservatives: While formulas without a water phase are less prone to microbial growth, adding a preservative is highly recommended, especially for products intended for sale. This is because user handling can introduce water into the product over time, creating an environment for microbial contamination.
• Sunscreen: Adding sunscreen ingredients like Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse™ and Titanium Dioxide Nano EasyDisperse™ is recommended to provide SPF protection, as demonstrated in the example formulas for foundation/BB and cream.

By carefully combining these ingredients and following proper mixing techniques, you can create formulations with the desired "silk fiber" texture and beneficial properties like enhanced spreadability and a smooth feel.