Ingredient Functions: Texture, Oil Absorption, and Cleansing Formulas

Question

Based on a formula that does not contain Propylene Glycol but has a stretchy texture, and a texture that is white and cream-like but more liquid: Which ingredient is responsible for the stretchy/mucus-like texture in a formula without Propylene Glycol? How does an ingredient like Pro Polymer contribute to the texture (cream-like)? How does the amount of glycol (such as Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, or Pentanediol) affect the stretchiness and liquidity of the product? In an Oil Soap formula (e.g., Oil Soap 70% + Oil 30%), does the oil (like Soybean Oil) primarily coat the skin while the Oil Soap works, and is most of it washed off when rinsing? What are the main differences between Fractionated Coconut Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil, and what are their benefits for hair/scalp? Do LipidSoft CC and Mineral Oil absorb deeply into the skin?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Hello! Here are the answers to your questions:

Fractionated Coconut Oil vs. Virgin Coconut Oil: The main difference is that Fractionated Coconut Oil lacks certain fatty acids found in Virgin Coconut Oil. This gives it benefits like high stability, very long shelf life, no rancid smell, and it is non-clogging. However, some of the natural benefits present in Virgin Coconut Oil may be reduced.
Fractionated Coconut Oil for hair: While Virgin Coconut Oil is sometimes claimed to promote hair growth, research doesn't strongly support this directly. It can, however, help nourish and strengthen the scalp, which indirectly supports healthy hair growth. Fractionated Coconut Oil can also help provide moisture and strength to the scalp, offering similar indirect benefits for hair health.
LipidSoft CC and Mineral Oil absorption: These oils, like most oils, primarily function by coating the skin's surface to provide moisture and emollience. While a small amount might absorb into the very top layers, they do not penetrate deeply into the skin.
Oil Soap formulation (Oil Soap 70% + Oil 30%): The oil in this type of formula is mainly intended to provide moisture and protect the skin from the potential irritation of surfactants during washing. It primarily coats the skin while the soap is active. When you rinse, most of the oil will be washed off, especially with a high concentration of Oil Soap. If the oil's purpose is just this protective coating during washing and not deep nourishment, you can use a cheaper oil like Mineral Oil or Soybean Oil, as they will be largely rinsed away anyway.
Ingredient causing stringiness: Regarding the product in your image (which you noted doesn't seem to contain Propylene Glycol), the ingredient causing the stringy or stretchy texture is likely Pentanediol. Pentanediol provides a similar effect to Propylene Glycol and Butylene Glycol, and these can often be used interchangeably for this property. In the formula provided previously (Pro Polymer + Propylene Glycol + Water), the Pro Polymer creates the cream-like texture, and the Propylene Glycol contributes to the stringiness. The amount of glycol (like Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, or Pentanediol) affects both how stringy the product is and its overall liquidity.

Thank you!