Information on Glycerin and Natural Preservatives for Bar Soap Formulation

Asked by: kaewusiri80 On: January 25, 2018 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I am interested in formulating a glycerin bar soap using natural ingredients. Could you provide information on suitable ingredients like glycerin and natural preservatives, including their properties, usage percentages, and any specific considerations for incorporating them into a bar soap formula?

Answer

Glycerin Bar Soap Formulation Information

Creating a specific step-by-step recipe with exact percentages for glycerin bar soap with natural ingredients is complex and depends heavily on the specific soap-making process (like melt-and-pour or cold process) and desired properties. However, I can provide information on key ingredients like glycerin and natural preservatives often used in cosmetic formulations.

Glycerin

Glycerin (USP/Food Grade) is a common ingredient in many cosmetic products, including soaps. It acts as a humectant, attracting and retaining moisture, which helps keep the skin hydrated. It also functions as a solvent and an emollient, contributing to a smooth texture. It is typically mixed into the water phase of a formulation and can be used at various concentrations (1-100%), though it's not recommended for direct application to the skin.

Natural Preservatives

Preservatives are crucial in formulations containing water to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold, extending the product's shelf life and ensuring safety. When seeking natural options, consider these types:

  • NaturePreserve™ Ultra: A natural powder preservative combining Gluconolactone and Sodium Benzoate. It is water-soluble and effective in formulations with a pH between 3 and 6. Typical usage is 0.75-2.0%.
  • PaeoniaPreserve™: A natural liquid preservative derived from Paeonia root extract. It is water-soluble and can be used as a single preservative at 2% or combined with others at 0.5-1.0%. Avoid heating above 60°C.
  • Dehydroacetic Acid (99% Powder, Natural Preservative): A natural powder effective against yeast and mold, but often needs to be combined with another preservative for broad-spectrum bacterial control. It is soluble in alcohol.
  • Global Guard™ 221 (pH 2-7, Natural): A natural, water-soluble, broad-spectrum liquid preservative effective in a pH range of 2-7. Use at 0.5-1.1% and avoid temperatures above 45°C.
  • Coco-Preserve™ (Preservative from Coconut Extract): A natural liquid preservative from coconut extract. It is water-soluble, broad-spectrum, and works in a pH range of 4-8. Use at 1-2% and avoid heat above 50°C.
  • NaturePreserve™ LB2: A natural, water-soluble, broad-spectrum liquid preservative effective at low pH values (2.0-6.5). Use at 0.5-1.0% and avoid heat above 50°C.
  • Ethylhexylglycerin: While not a stand-alone preservative, it is a gentle ingredient often used to boost the efficacy of other preservatives and provides humectant properties. It is soluble in glycols and alcohol, not water, and is heat tolerant.

Important Considerations:

  • The appropriate preservative and its usage rate depend on the specific ingredients in your soap formula and the intended pH of the final product.
  • It is highly recommended to perform challenge testing on your final formulation to ensure the preservative system is effective against microbial contamination.
  • Always follow the manufacturer's recommended usage rates and mixing instructions for each ingredient.