Lotion Bar Formulation Guidance for Warm Climates

Here is some guidance on formulating lotion bars using Fractionated Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Beeswax, and Essential Oil, adapted for a warm climate like Thailand, based on your questions and product information.

Ingredient Ratios and Carnauba Wax

The standard 1:1:1 ratio of oil/butter, oil/butter, and wax (like Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Beeswax) is a good starting point, but for warmer climates, you generally need a higher proportion of wax to ensure the bar stays solid and doesn't melt easily. Beeswax has a melting point around 62-63°C. Carnauba Wax has a significantly higher melting point (80-87°C) and is much harder.

While Beeswax alone can stabilize the formula, adding a small amount of Carnauba Wax can provide extra hardness and heat resistance, which is beneficial in a hot climate. You could try adjusting the ratio. A possible starting point for a firmer bar could be:

• Fractionated Coconut Oil: 1 part
• Shea Butter: 1 part
• Beeswax: 1.5 to 2 parts

If you find this is still too soft, you could replace a small amount of the Beeswax with Carnauba Wax (e.g., use 1.5 parts Beeswax and 0.5 parts Carnauba Wax, keeping the total wax amount around 2 parts relative to 2 parts oils/butters). Experimentation is key to finding the perfect hardness for your environment.

Adding Scent with Essential Oils

Essential oils are used to add fragrance. Since Fractionated Coconut Oil is odorless, the essential oil will primarily provide scent. The amount of essential oil to use depends on the specific oil and the desired strength of the scent, but a general guideline for cosmetic products is between 0.5% and 2% of the total formula weight. For a middle school project, starting with 0.5% to 1% is a safe and effective range to add a pleasant aroma.

Examples of essential oils include Bergamot Essential Oil or Peppermint Oil.

Adding Color

To add color to your lotion bars, you should use colorants that are suitable for oil-based products and approved for cosmetic use. Good options include cosmetic-grade mica powders or oil-soluble cosmetic dyes. You only need a very small amount of colorant to achieve a noticeable color. Add a tiny pinch at a time until you reach the desired shade. Ensure the colorant is thoroughly mixed into the melted oils and waxes before pouring into molds.

Good luck with your science project!