Answer to Your Facial Soap Formula Questions

Regarding your questions about the liquid facial soap formula and adding ingredients:

First, as previously advised, the original formula likely has a very high pH, which is too alkaline and can be harsh on the skin. It is crucial to adjust the pH to a skin-friendly range of 5-6.5 using an acid like Citric Acid or Lactic Acid after mixing the formula.

Here are the answers to your specific questions:

1. Adding Apple Extract (1-5%) and pH Adjustment: You can add Apple Extract within the suggested range of 1-5%. Some available Apple Extracts include AppleZin and Apple Stem Cell Extract. While some extracts might have a slightly acidic nature, adding them alone is generally not enough to significantly lower the pH from a high alkaline state to the target range of 5-6.5. You will still need to use Citric Acid or Lactic Acid to adjust the pH after adding the Apple Extract. pH adjustment is very important for facial soap to be gentle and not disrupt the skin's natural barrier.

2. Using Regular Fragrance Oil: For fragrance oils in a facial wash, especially if you are concerned about sensitivity, it is best to use a low concentration. A general guideline for fragrance oils in wash-off products like this is typically between 0.5% to 1% of the total formula. Start with a lower percentage and test for any irritation.

3. Modifying the Formula (Reducing Plantacare 1200 and Plantacare 2000): Reducing the concentration of the main surfactants like Plantacare 1200 (Lauryl Glucoside) and Plantacare 2000 (Decyl Glucoside) and replacing them with water will result in a thinner, less viscous product. Surfactants contribute significantly to the viscosity and cleansing properties of the formula. Lowering their concentration will reduce both the thickness and the cleansing effectiveness.

4. Lamesoft PO 65 and Viscosity: Lamesoft PO 65 (which is likely Ecosoft™ PO65, a blend of Coco-Glucoside and Glyceryl Oleate) is a viscous ingredient that contributes to the texture and feel of the product, and can help enhance viscosity. However, it is not the only ingredient providing viscosity; the main surfactants (Plantacare 1200 and Plantacare 2000) also play a significant role in the overall thickness. The amount you mentioned (2 plastic spoons, approximately 6g in a 200ml formula, which is about 3%) is within the typical recommended usage range for Ecosoft™ PO65 (1-5%). Whether this amount is "appropriate" depends on the desired final viscosity and performance of the product when combined with the other ingredients.

5. pH for Shampoo/Body Wash, Fresh Juices, Preservative: The ideal pH range for cleansing products used on the skin, including facial wash, shampoo, and body wash, is generally the same: slightly acidic, between 5 and 6.5. Regarding fresh plant juices (like lime, star fruit, butterfly pea), it is strongly advised against adding unprocessed fresh plant materials to cosmetic formulations. Fresh plant matter contains microorganisms that can cause the product to spoil quickly, and standard cosmetic preservatives are often not effective against this type of contamination. For any water-based cosmetic product, even in small 200ml batches, a suitable cosmetic preservative is essential to prevent microbial growth and ensure safety and shelf life.

6. Mixing Container: Information regarding the necessity of using glass versus plastic containers for mixing is not available from the product database.

In summary, focus on adjusting the pH of your formula to 5-6.5 using citric acid or lactic acid for skin compatibility. You can add apple extract and fragrance oil at appropriate low concentrations, but remember that pH adjustment is still necessary. Be aware that reducing the main surfactants will decrease viscosity and cleansing power. Always use a preservative in water-based formulations and avoid fresh plant juices.