Hand Foam Formulation (Saponification) and Ingredient Availability
Question
Regarding a hand foam formulation using the saponification process, could you please provide information on:
- The recommended percentages for the following ingredients:
- Lauric acid
- Myristic acid
- Potassium hydroxide
- Purified Water
- Propylene Glycol
- Tetrasodium EDTA
- Steareth-11
- 0-cymen-50L
- Polystyrene
- Fragrance
- Colorant (CI 45190)
- Which of these ingredients are available for purchase?
Answer
Hand Foam Formulation Inquiry
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the hand foam formulation based on the ingredients you provided. We understand your interest and also acknowledge the previous discussion with our staff about the nature of this formula.
Based on the ingredients you listed (Lauric acid, Myristic acid, Potassium hydroxide), this formulation utilizes the saponification process, which creates traditional soap. As previously mentioned, this type of formula typically results in a high pH product, which may not be ideal for long-term skin health.
Regarding your specific questions:
Percentages: Determining the exact percentage of each ingredient, especially the ratio of fatty acids (Lauric acid, Myristic acid) to Potassium Hydroxide, requires precise calculation based on saponification values and extensive testing to ensure the reaction is complete and the final product has the desired properties (consistency, foam, mildness within the high pH range). Providing specific percentages without this R&D process is not feasible.
Ingredient Availability: We have checked our inventory for the ingredients you listed:
- Available: We carry Purified Water, Propylene Glycol, Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, and Tetrasodium EDTA. We also offer a variety of Fragrances and cosmetic Colorants (including options similar to CI 45190).
- Related/Alternatives: While Steareth-11 is not available, we have other Steareth emulsifiers such as Steareth-10 and Steareth-21 which might be suitable depending on the formula requirements.
- Not Found/Unusual: 0-cymen-50L was not found in our system. Polystyrene was also not found and is not a common ingredient in hand wash formulations; it might be a component of another raw material or a different ingredient name.
We reiterate the advice that formulations based on milder synthetic surfactants are generally preferred for hand washes due to their lower pH and gentler effect on the skin compared to traditional soap. However, if you choose to proceed with this type of formula, careful formulation and testing are crucial.
Our store carries the key components for the saponification reaction and other listed ingredients like Purified Water, Propylene Glycol, and Tetrasodium EDTA, as well as Fragrances and Colorants. You would need to determine the appropriate ratios for your desired product characteristics.
Related Products Mentioned
Propylene Glycol (USP)
Sodium Hydroxide
Purified Water, TDS Limit 1PPM)
Lauric Acid (99%)
Myristic Acid (FEMA-2764)
Floral Background
Steareth-21
Tetrasodium EDTA
SI-2 Red R-516L