Gentle Shower Gel Formula for Soft Skin
Question
I am looking for a gentle shower gel formula that provides good cleansing while leaving the skin feeling soft. Could you please provide a formula for this type of product? I am also interested in potentially including Aloe Vera Extract, although I understand its effectiveness in wash-off products might be limited.
Answer
Gentle Shower Gel Formula
This formula uses mild cleansing agents and a conditioning ingredient to leave skin feeling soft.
Based on your request for a gentle formula that cleanses well and leaves skin feeling soft, and considering the previous discussion about the limited benefits of ingredients like aloe vera in wash-off products, here is a simple recipe focusing on mild cleansing and skin feel.
While a shower gel primarily cleanses, this formula uses gentle surfactants and includes ingredients to help the skin feel conditioned during and after washing.
Here is a suggested formula:
Ingredients:
- Water (Distilled or Deionized) - 68.9%
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine - 15%
- Mild-Wash L™ (Sodium Lauroamphoacetate) - 5%
- Coco Glucoside - 5%
- Xanthan Gum (clear gel type, normal texture, 80 Mesh) - 1%
- Poly-Conditioner 47 (Polyquaternium-47) - 1%
- Aloe Vera Extract (extraction ratio 10:1 FullAssay™) - 3%
- NaturePreserve™ LB2 - 1%
- Citric Acid or Lactic Acid (for pH adjustment) - adjust as needed
Instructions:
- In a clean container, weigh out the Water.
- Slowly add the Xanthan Gum to the water while stirring or using a high-speed mixer. Continue mixing until the Xanthan Gum is fully hydrated and a smooth gel forms. This may take some time.
- Add Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Mild-Wash L™, and Coco Glucoside to the gel base. Stir gently to combine, minimizing foam.
- Add Poly-Conditioner 47 and Aloe Vera Extract. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Add NaturePreserve™ LB2 and stir to combine.
- Check the pH of the mixture using pH strips or a pH meter. The target pH for a gentle body wash is typically between 5.0 and 6.0.
- Carefully add small amounts of Citric Acid or Lactic Acid solution (e.g., a 20% solution in water), stirring well after each addition, until the desired pH is reached.
- Once the pH is adjusted, the shower gel is ready. You can add fragrance or colorants at this stage if desired, following their recommended usage rates.
- Pour the finished product into a clean bottle.
Notes:
- This formula provides gentle cleansing and a pleasant skin feel.
- As discussed, while Aloe Vera Extract is included as requested, its moisturizing and brightening benefits in a wash-off product are limited due to the short contact time with the skin.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear (gloves, eye protection) when making cosmetic formulations.
- Ensure all equipment and containers are clean and sanitized.
Related Products Mentioned
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Coco Glucoside
Mild-Wash L™ (Sodium Lauroamphoacetate)
Poly-Conditioner 47 (Polyquaternium-47)