Guide Formula for Tone-Up Body Lotion (O/W Emulsion)
Question
Could you please provide a comprehensive guide formula for a Body Lotion Tone Up? I am looking for a stable Oil-in-Water (O/W) emulsion formulation that utilizes a high concentration of white pigment, such as Titanium Dioxide, to achieve an instant brightening effect, while ensuring the final product is smooth, non-streaky, and the pigment is perfectly dispersed.
Answer
Guide Formula for Tone-Up Body Lotion (O/W Emulsion)
A Tone-Up Body Lotion is an Oil-in-Water (O/W) emulsion that uses a high concentration of white pigment, typically Titanium Dioxide (TiO2), to instantly brighten the skin. The key challenge is ensuring the pigment is evenly dispersed and the lotion remains stable and non-streaky.
Recommended Titanium Dioxide
For a smooth, non-greasy feel and easy dispersion, we recommend using a surface-treated grade that disperses well in the oil phase, such as Titanium Dioxide 200nm EasyDisperse™ (ID 236) or Titanium Dioxide 250nm SilkTouch™ (ID 1919).
General Formulation Guide
| Phase | Ingredient Type | Example Ingredients | Recommended Range (%) | Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A (Water) | Water | Deionized Water | Up to 100% | Solvent |
| Humectant | Glycerin, Propanediol | 3 - 5% | Hydration | |
| Thickener/Stabilizer | Xanthan Gum, Carbomer | 0.1 - 0.5% | Viscosity, Stability | |
| B (Oil & Emulsifier) | Emulsifier (O/W) | Olivem 1000 (Cetearyl Olivate & Sorbitan Olivate), Glyceryl Stearate SE | 3 - 6% | Emulsification |
| Emollient (Light) | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Palmitate | 5 - 10% | Skin feel, Spreading | |
| Consistency Agent | Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid | 1 - 3% | Thickening, Body | |
| C (Pigment) | Tone-Up Pigment | Titanium Dioxide (ID 236 or ID 1919) | 5 - 15% | Tone-Up Effect (Whitening) |
| Pigment Dispersant | Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Lecithin | 0.5 - 1% | Aids pigment dispersion | |
| D (Cool Down) | Active Ingredients | Niacinamide, Vitamin C derivatives | 1 - 5% | Skin benefits |
| Preservative | Phenoxyethanol, Germall Plus | 0.5 - 1.5% | Preservation | |
| Fragrance/Color | Fragrance, Cosmetic Colorants | 0.1 - 0.5% | Aesthetics |
Key Formulation Steps for Tone-Up Lotion
- Prepare Phase A: Heat water and dissolve water-soluble ingredients (humectants, thickeners) to 70-75°C.
- Prepare Phase B: Combine all oil phase ingredients (emollients, emulsifiers, consistency agents) and heat to 70-75°C until fully melted and uniform.
- Prepare Phase C (Pigment Dispersion): This is the most critical step.
- Mix the Titanium Dioxide with the Pigment Dispersant and a small amount of the oil from Phase B (e.g., 2-3% of the total formula's oil).
- Use a high-shear mixer (homogenizer) to ensure the pigment is perfectly dispersed into the oil phase. This pre-dispersion prevents clumping and streaking in the final product.
- Emulsification: Slowly add Phase B (Oil) into Phase A (Water) while stirring continuously with a high-speed mixer. Once combined, switch to a homogenizer for 3-5 minutes to create a stable, fine emulsion.
- Pigment Incorporation: Once the emulsion is formed, slowly add the pre-dispersed Phase C (Pigment Slurry) into the main emulsion while mixing. Continue mixing until the color is completely uniform.
- Cool Down: Begin cooling the emulsion while stirring gently.
- Add Phase D: When the temperature drops below 40°C, add the cool-down ingredients (actives, preservative, fragrance).
- Final Adjustment: Check the pH and adjust if necessary (usually to 5.5-6.5).
Note on Pigment Load: Start with 5% TiO2 and adjust upwards (up to 15%) depending on the desired level of whitening/tone-up effect. Higher pigment loads require stronger emulsifiers and stabilizers.
