Dissolving Caffeine Anhydrous in Lotion Formula
Question
I am using Caffeine Anhydrous at 0.5% in a lotion formula. I plan to use a solvent mixture of Ethyl Alcohol 50% : Water 50%.
- How much of this solvent mixture should I use?
- Is the method correct: Mix Ethyl Alcohol 50% and Water 50%, then dissolve the Caffeine in this mixture until clear, and then add it to the lotion during the mixing process?
- Is heat required for dissolution?
Thank you.
Answer
Dissolving Caffeine Anhydrous (CF Powder) in Lotion Formulas
When incorporating Caffeine Anhydrous (CF Powder) at 0.5% into a lotion formula using a solvent mixture of 50% Ethyl Alcohol and 50% water, here's the recommended approach:
Prepare the Solvent Mixture: Mix Ethyl Alcohol and water in a 50:50 ratio by weight or volume.
Dissolve the Caffeine: Weigh out the required amount of Caffeine Anhydrous (0.5% of your total formula weight). Add this caffeine powder to a sufficient amount of the 50% Ethyl Alcohol: 50% water solvent mixture. Stir or mix until the caffeine is completely dissolved, forming a clear solution. You should use the minimum amount of solvent mixture needed to achieve full dissolution of the caffeine.
Incorporate into Lotion: Once the caffeine is fully dissolved in the solvent mixture, you can add this solution to your lotion base during the appropriate phase of your formulation process. Adding it as a pre-dissolved solution ensures even distribution throughout the lotion.
Regarding heat, Caffeine Anhydrous has good heat resistance and is soluble in the 50% Ethyl Alcohol: 50% water mixture at room temperature. Gentle warming (e.g., in a warm water bath) can sometimes help speed up the dissolution process if needed, but it is often not strictly necessary for this concentration if given enough time and stirring.
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