How to Fix Separation in Your Underarm Spray

Your underarm spray formula is separating because some ingredients are not dissolving properly in the water base. The main culprits are Dimethicone and Citromask, which are not water-soluble.

To create a stable spray, all ingredients must be compatible with the water phase. Here are two ways to modify your formula:

Option 1: Add a Solubilizer

You can add a solubilizer to help disperse the oil-soluble ingredients (Dimethicone and Citromask) in the water. A common choice is a PEG-Hydrogenated Castor Oil derivative, such as PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil.

• Modification: Add 2-5% of a solubilizer (like PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil). The exact amount needed requires testing.
• Mixing Method: Mix the Dimethicone, Citromask, and Farnesol with the solubilizer until clear. Then, slowly add this mixture to the water phase (diwater, Aluminum Chlorohydrate, Odorkill, Mild Preserve Eco) while stirring.

Option 2: Replace Insoluble Ingredients with Water-Soluble Alternatives

Replace the Dimethicone and Citromask with ingredients that are soluble in water.

• Replace Dimethicone: Use a water-soluble silicone like PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone or FoamTex™ (PEG-17 Dimethicone).
• Replace Citromask: Increase the amount of Odor-Kill™ or use another water-soluble deodorizer like Odor-Kill DO™ (Octenidine HCl, Deodorant).
• Example Modified Formula (using water-soluble alternatives):
  • diwater: ~78%
  • Farnesol (Water Soluble, 15%): 3%
  • Odor-Kill™: 3-4%
  • Odor-Kill DO™ (Optional): 0.5-1%
  • Water-soluble Silicone (e.g., PEG/PPG-20/15 Dimethicone or FoamTex™): 2-4%
  • Aluminum Chlorohydrate: 4%
  • Mild Preserve Eco™: 1%
• Mixing Method: Dissolve all ingredients in the water phase (diwater) one by one, ensuring each is fully dissolved.

Option 2 is generally easier to achieve a stable, clear spray. Aluminum Chlorohydrate is water-soluble but works best when the overall system is stable.

Always test your modified formula with a small batch first.