Gel Formulation: Adding Fragrance and Adjusting pH
Asked by: antc.aon
On: July 30, 2013
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
I am developing a gel formulation using 2% Pro Polymer. I would like to know:
- Will a base formula with 2% Pro Polymer form a gel?
- How can I add an oil-based Sakura fragrance to this water-based gel without causing separation?
- What ingredients can I use to adjust the pH of the gel (e.g., Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Triethanolamine) and how should I do it?
Answer
Formula Analysis and Fragrance Incorporation
Based on your formula and the staff's advice:
- Gel Formation: The base formula (without the Sakura Fragrance) should form a gel with 2% Pro Polymer. The staff confirmed this is achievable with your list of ingredients. You likely do not need to add more Pro Polymer for the base gel itself.
- Fragrance Incorporation: Adding an oil-based fragrance ("หัวน้ำหอม") directly to a water-based gel will cause separation. To prevent this and maintain the gel structure, you need to use a solubilizer.
- If the fragrance is an essential oil, use Polysorbate 20.
- If it's a chemical fragrance/perfume oil, use Alcohol.
- Mix the fragrance with the solubilizer first until clear, then add to the gel base. The amount of solubilizer needed is usually more than the fragrance and requires testing to find the right ratio for your specific fragrance.
- pH Adjustment: To adjust the pH, you can use:
- Lactic Acid or Citric Acid to lower the pH.
- Triethanolamine to raise the pH.
- These ingredients are available for purchase. Always use a pH meter to check the pH level during adjustment.
In summary, the base gels, but incorporating the fragrance requires pre-mixing it with a suitable solubilizer (Polysorbate 20 or Alcohol) before adding to the gel. pH can be adjusted using common cosmetic acids or bases.