Lotion Formula Review: Preservative and Emulsifier Adjustment for Stability
Question
I am developing a natural, gentle, and moisturizing lotion formula. I have the following formulation:
- Water Phase:
- Water: 57%
- Hydro Gel: 5%
- Aloe Vera Extract: 2%
- Luxury Cream Maker: 1%
- Oil Phase:
- Coconut Oil: 20%
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 5%
- Cocoa Butter (Deodorized): 10%
Total: 100%
I have a few questions regarding this formula:
- Is a preservative necessary for this formula?
- If so, are there any natural or gentle preservative alternatives to Phenoxyethanol?
- Is the percentage of Luxury Cream Maker sufficient for this formula, given the oil phase percentage?
- Is this formula suitable for providing good moisturization, especially for dry skin?
Answer
Lotion Formula Review and Suggestions
Thank you for your question regarding your natural, gentle, and moisturizing lotion formula.
Based on the formula you provided, the staff has offered the following advice:
- Preservative: A preservative is necessary for this formula because it contains water, which can support microbial growth.
- Natural/Gentle Preservative Alternative: If you wish to avoid Phenoxyethanol, you can use other milder preservatives such as Mild Preserved (primarily Ethylhexylglycerin and Caprylyl Glycol).
- Emulsifier Percentage (Luxury Cream Maker): The staff recommends increasing the percentage of Luxury Cream Maker from the original 1% to 2.5-3.5%. This is because the oil phase in your formula is quite high at 35% (Coconut Oil 20% + Olive Oil 5% + Cocoa Butter 10%). Using too little emulsifier might result in an unstable formula and separation.
- Formula Suitability: With a relatively high oil content, this formula should provide good moisturization and is likely suitable for individuals with rather dry skin.
Summary of Suggested Adjustments:
Original Formula:
- Water Phase: Water 57%, Hydro Gel 5%, Aloe Vera Extract 2%, Luxury Cream Maker 1%
- Oil Phase: Coconut Oil 20%, Extra Virgin Olive Oil 5%, Cocoa Butter (Deodorized) 10%
It is recommended to increase the percentage of Luxury Cream Maker and reduce the water percentage accordingly to maintain a total of 100%. For example, if you increase Luxury Cream Maker to 3%, you should reduce Water by 2%.
Adjusted Formula based on Recommendation (Example using 3% Luxury Cream Maker):
- Water Phase:
- Water: 55% (Reduced from 57%)
- Hydro Gel: 5%
- Aloe Vera Extract: 2%
- Luxury Cream Maker: 3% (Increased from 1%)
- Oil Phase:
- Coconut Oil: 20%
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 5%
- Cocoa Butter (Deodorized): 10%
Total: 100%
Remember to also add the chosen preservative at its recommended usage rate.
We hope this information is helpful for adjusting your lotion formula.
Related Products Mentioned
Olive Oil (Extra Virgin)
Cocoa Butter (Deodorized, Refined)
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Hydro Gel (Biosaccharide Gum-1)
Ethylhexylglycerin