Foot and Hand Cream Formulations

Foot Cream Formulation for Dry, Cracked Skin

For a foot cream focused on moisturizing and treating dry, cracked heels, the key ingredients recommended are Urea and Sodium Lactate, which are important components of the skin's natural Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). They help attract and retain moisture effectively. Urea, especially at concentrations above 5%, also has keratolytic properties that help exfoliate thick, dry skin on the heels.

Suggested Formula:

• Water: Remaining portion to 100%
• Urea (High Purity, Cosmetics, Powder): 15%
  • Provides high moisture and helps exfoliate thick, dry skin on heels.
• Sodium Lactate (60% Liquid, Natural): 5%
  • Enhances Urea's moisturizing effect and helps reduce skin water loss.
• Butter Cream Maker™: 5%
  • An emulsifier that helps water and oil combine and creates a rich, butter-like cream texture, suitable for skin needing extra coverage.
• Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) Light (26cst): 5%
  • An emollient that makes skin soft and smooth and forms a thin film to reduce water evaporation.
• Mild Preserved™ COS (pH 2-8, Broad Spectrum, No-Odor): 1%
  • A preservative to prevent microbial growth in the cream.

Approximate Method:

1. Dissolve Urea and Sodium Lactate in the Water phase. Stir until fully dissolved.
2. In a separate container, heat the Butter Cream Maker™ and Mineral Oil to about 70-80°C until the oil phase is combined and the Butter Cream Maker™ is melted.
3. Slowly pour the water phase (from step 1) into the oil phase while mixing/stirring until a cream texture forms.
4. Once the cream cools down (below 45°C), add the Mild Preserved™ COS. Stir to combine.
5. Let the cream cool completely. The texture will thicken gradually over about 12 hours.

Softening Hand Cream Formulation

For a hand cream that feels soft upon first touch and nourishes the skin, you can use emollients that provide a pleasant skin feel, such as Shea Butter, and enhance moisture with humectants like Glycerin and Sodium Lactate to increase hydration.

Suggested Formula:

• Water: Remaining portion to 100%
• Shea Butter (Ultra Soft): 5-10% (adjust based on preference; increase for a richer texture)
  • An excellent emollient that makes skin soft, moisturized, and deeply nourished.
• Glycerin (USP/Food Grade): 3-5%
  • A humectant that helps attract and retain moisture in the skin.
• Sodium Lactate (60% Liquid, Natural): 3-5%
  • Enhances moisture and contributes to a smoother cream texture.
• Butter Cream Maker™: 3-5% (adjust based on preference; increase for a thicker texture)
  • An emulsifier to create the cream texture.
• Mild Preserved™ COS (pH 2-8, Broad Spectrum, No-Odor): 1%
  • A preservative.
• Fragrance: 0.1-1% (optional, based on preference)

Approximate Method:

1. Dissolve Glycerin and Sodium Lactate in the Water phase. Stir until fully dissolved.
2. In a separate container, heat the Shea Butter and Butter Cream Maker™ to about 70-80°C until the oil phase is combined and melted.
3. Slowly pour the water phase (from step 1) into the oil phase while mixing/stirring until a cream texture forms.
4. Once the cream cools down (below 45°C), add the Mild Preserved™ COS and Fragrance (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Let the cream cool completely. The texture will thicken gradually.

Important Notes:

• These formulas are starting points. You can adjust the percentages of ingredients like emollients or cream makers to achieve your desired texture.
• When making cosmetics at home, ensure all equipment and containers are clean.
• Before applying to a large skin area, always perform a patch test on a small area to check for any allergic reactions.

Have fun experimenting with making your own creams!