Difference between Oil Thick™ Soft and Oil Thick™ Hard

Both Oil Thick™ Soft and Oil Thick™ Hard share the same INCI name, Dextrin Palmitate. However, they differ in the texture they create when used as oil gelling agents:

• Oil Thick™ Soft: Creates a soft oil gel texture. It is suitable for formulations requiring a softer feel, such as cream formulations. It results in a translucent (not 100% clear) texture.
• Oil Thick™ Hard: Creates a semi-solid oil gel texture. It is suitable for formulations requiring a firmer texture, such as balms or pressed powder formulations. It also results in a translucent (not 100% clear) texture.

Despite the difference in final texture, both are easy to use, have high density, and can be used with various oils and silicones (though clarity may be affected when used with silicone).

Data Sheet Information (Summary)

Here is a summary of key information for both products:

• INCI Name: Dextrin Palmitate
• Product Characteristics: White powder
• Solubility: Dissolves in any kind of oil.
• Mixing Method: Mix in oil, hydrocarbons (like Isododecane, Isohexadecane), or LipidSoft™ types. Heat to 75-105°C (temperature depends on the specific oil used) until the powder is fully dissolved. Stir or blend until the formula cools and sets.
• Usage Rate:
  • Oil Thick™ Soft: 2-10%. Use 2-5% for a thick liquid, 6-10% for a gel.
  • Oil Thick™ Hard: 0.1-10%. Higher concentrations result in thicker formulas.
• Storage: Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, protected from sunlight or heat.
• Shelf Life: At least 2 years.
• Key Uses:
  • Thickening/gelling oils in formulations.
  • Adjusting viscosity in products like lip gloss or liquid foundation.
  • Preventing precipitation of powders (like physical sunscreens) in oil/silicone bases by helping to disperse them.

In summary, while chemically similar (Dextrin Palmitate), Oil Thick™ Soft and Oil Thick™ Hard are processed differently to yield distinct functional properties, specifically in the firmness of the oil gel they create.