Lotion Formula Review: Emulsifier and Essential Oil Percentage

Asked by: pakakrong.villa51 On: October 28, 2021 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please review the following lotion formula?
Coconut Oil 18%
Shea Butter 7.5%
Sensitive Cream Maker 0.5%
DI Water 68%
Glycerin 2%
Mild Preserved Eco 2%
Lavender Essential Oil 2%

Answer

Regarding the lotion formula you provided:

The overall structure of the formula is correct for a lotion, containing an oil phase, water phase, emulsifier, humectant, preservative, and essential oil. The percentages also add up to 100%.

However, there are a couple of points to consider:

  • Sensitive Cream Maker (0.5%): This percentage seems quite low for emulsifying 25.5% of oils and butters (18% Coconut Oil + 7.5% Shea Butter). While some modern emulsifiers are very efficient, it's crucial to check the supplier's recommended usage rate for "Sensitive Cream Maker" to ensure the emulsion will be stable over time. Using too little emulsifier can lead to separation.
  • Lavender Essential Oil (2%): This is a relatively high concentration for a leave-on product like lotion. Essential oils, even natural ones, can cause skin irritation or sensitization at high percentages, especially for sensitive skin. The typical recommended usage rate for essential oils in lotions is usually between 0.1% and 1%. You might consider reducing the percentage of Lavender Essential Oil to minimize potential skin reactions.

The other ingredients (Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, DI Water, Glycerin, Mild Preserved Eco) and their percentages seem reasonable for a lotion formulation.

In summary, while the formula is structurally sound, you may need to adjust the percentage of the emulsifier based on its recommended usage and consider reducing the percentage of Lavender Essential Oil for better skin compatibility.