Emulsifier for easy wash-off cream/lotion

Here's a comparison of the three emulsifiers:

• Glyceryl Stearate SE (GMS SE): This is a self-emulsifying grade of Glyceryl Stearate, often containing a small amount of a salt like Potassium Stearate to help it disperse in water. While it's "self-emulsifying" in the sense that it can disperse in water, Glyceryl Stearate itself has a low HLB (around 3.8-5.8) and primarily functions as a thickener and co-emulsifier. For stable oil-in-water emulsions, it typically needs to be used in combination with a higher HLB emulsifier. Products made primarily with low HLB emulsifiers tend to be more water-resistant and less easy to wash off.
• Glyceryl Stearate and PEG-100 Stearate: This is a common blend of Glyceryl Stearate (low HLB) and PEG-100 Stearate (high HLB). The combination results in a higher overall HLB value, typically around 11.0, making it an effective primary O/W (Oil-in-Water) emulsifier. O/W emulsions are designed to disperse in water, which generally makes products formulated with them easier to wash off the skin compared to W/O (Water-in-Oil) emulsions or formulas relying solely on low HLB emulsifiers.
• Light Cream Maker™: This is a polymer-based emulsifier and thickener that works via a different mechanism than traditional HLB-based emulsifiers. It creates an O/W system and functions without heat. It can emulsify up to about 20% oil. While it creates a light cream texture, its wash-off properties are not directly related to an HLB value in the same way as the other two. Its ability to wash off easily might depend more on the polymer structure and other ingredients in the formula.

Which one for easiest wash-off?

Considering the goal is to make the cream/lotion easiest to wash off, the emulsifier with a higher HLB value that promotes O/W emulsification is generally preferred.

Based on the typical properties and stated HLB of approximately 11.0, Glyceryl Stearate and PEG-100 Stearate is the most likely candidate among these three to result in a product that is easily washed off with water. Its composition is specifically designed to create stable O/W emulsions that readily interact with water.

While Light Cream Maker™ also creates an O/W system, its wash-off characteristics might vary, and Glyceryl Stearate SE on its own is less likely to provide easy wash-off without a high HLB partner.

Keep in mind that the final wash-off property of your product will also depend on the total composition of your formula, including the type and amount of oils, waxes, and other ingredients used.