Incorporating Liquid and Powder Extracts into Cream Formulations
Question
When formulating a cream using both liquid and powder extracts, is the mixing process the same as when using only liquid extracts? Specifically, how should powder extracts be incorporated into the cream formulation?
Answer
Hello,
Regarding your question about making cream using both herbal powders and liquid extracts, based on your query and the staff's response, the process is not always fixed and is not necessarily the same as using only liquid extracts.
The key factor is the specific properties of each ingredient, whether it is in powder or liquid form. As the staff mentioned, you need to consider:
Solubility: What does the extract dissolve in?
- Water-soluble? Should be mixed in the Water phase.
- Oil-soluble? Should be mixed in the Oil phase.
- Soluble in other solvents?
- Insoluble but dispersible?
Heat Stability: Some extracts are not stable at high temperatures. If added during a heating step (like emulsification), the extract might degrade. Heat-sensitive ingredients are often added during the Cool-down phase, after the cream base has cooled down.
Difference in using "Powder" vs. "Liquid"
- Liquid Extract: Usually soluble in water or the solvent used for extraction. Often added to the Water phase or Cool-down phase, depending on heat stability.
- Powder Extract: Often needs to be dissolved or dispersed in a suitable solvent first (e.g., water, glycerin) before being added to the main cream mixture. Adding powder directly to the cream base might result in a gritty texture, poor dispersion, or the extract not incorporating properly. Water-soluble powders that dissolve well are usually dissolved in water and then added to the Water phase or Cool-down phase.
In summary:
The process you learned (Water + Thickener -> Oil -> Extracts -> Preservative) is a good basic guideline. However, when using powder extracts, you might need to add a step to dissolve or disperse the powder extract in water or another suitable solvent first before adding this mixture at the correct stage (often the Water phase or Cool-down phase).
The most important advice is to check the usage instructions and Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for each specific ingredient you plan to use. This information will detail how to use the ingredient, recommended concentration, solubility, and the optimal phase/temperature for addition. This is the most accurate and safe way to develop your cream formula.
Hope this information is helpful.