Gelling Agents for Aloe Vera Gel and Liquid Soap

Here are some recommended gelling agents for your formulations, along with their suggested usage rates and mixing instructions:

For Aloe Vera Gel

• Pro Polymer™ (Gel Maker)

  • Usage Rate: 0.5-5% (0.8% is recommended for a general gel texture. Use 2-3% or more if your formula contains electrolytes). Using more than 3% can create a pudding-like texture.
  • Mixing: Sprinkle the powder onto the water phase and stir slowly for 3-5 minutes until a smooth gel forms. Avoid high-speed blending (above 2500 rpm) as it can damage the polymer. If your formula contains more than 5% glycerin or propylene glycol, mix the Pro Polymer with these first before adding to water. If using only water, sprinkle slowly while blending, then stop and let it sit for 1 day for full absorption before blending slowly again.

• Pro Polymer™ Silk

  • Usage Rate: 0.5-5% (increase amount if electrolytes are present).
  • Mixing: Mix into the water phase. You must use a blender (not just stirring) to achieve a gel texture. The formula pH should be between 2-9. Avoid high-speed blending (above 2500 rpm). It takes about 50% longer to blend compared to other gel makers.
  • Note: This provides a soft, smooth, non-sticky feel. It is less resistant to electrolytes and not compatible with negatively charged ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid.

For Liquid Soap

• EasyThick ™ (viscous in shampoo/liquid soap)

  • Usage Rate: 3-15% (depending on the desired thickness).
  • Mixing: This is a thick liquid. You can mix it with water and heat to 80°C to dissolve it before adding detergents. Alternatively, add it after mixing water and detergent, then heat the mixture to at least 80°C for it to melt into the formula. Avoid overheating.

• SugarThick™ (PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate)

  • Usage Rate: 1-5% (1-3% is recommended).
  • Mixing: This is a light yellow flake powder. It can be added at the final mixing stage by slowly stirring or blending at low speed. It melts into a liquid at 50-60°C, so you can mix it into formulas within this temperature range, or warm the SugarThick™ separately until liquid before adding. Avoid overheating.
  • Note: This works with almost all detergents, helps reduce irritation from harsh detergents, and doesn't interfere with foam.

Always refer to the specific product page for the most detailed and up-to-date instructions and safety information.