Low Foam in Liquid Soap Formulation with Amino Wash and Oil
Asked by: watcharin-chem16
On: March 17, 2017
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
I have created a liquid soap formulation with the following ingredients:
- Amino Wash (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate): 12%
- Water: 72%
- ClearClean: 12%
- Oil: 2%
- Fractionated Coconut Oil: 2%
After mixing, the foam generated is very low. What adjustments should I make?
Answer
Based on your liquid soap formula, the low foam issue is likely due to:
- The primary surfactant: Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate (Amino Wash) is a very mild surfactant. It is gentle but typically produces less foam than stronger surfactants.
- The presence of oils: Oils, including Fractionated Coconut Oil, are known foam suppressors. The 4% total oil content will reduce foaming.
- ClearClean: This is an emulsifier, which helps mix oil and water but does not contribute to foam.
To increase foam, consider these adjustments:
- Add a foam booster/co-surfactant: Incorporate a secondary surfactant known for boosting foam, such as Cocamidopropyl Betaine or Decyl Glucoside. Adding 2-5% could significantly improve foam.
- Reduce the oil content: Lowering the percentage of oil and Fractionated Coconut Oil will decrease their foam-suppressing effect.
- Increase Amino Wash concentration: Slightly increasing the Amino Wash percentage (e.g., to 15%) might help, especially when combined with a foam booster.
Adding a foam booster and/or reducing oil content are the most effective ways to increase foam in this formulation.