Maximum Percentage for Adding Nourishing Oil to Cleansing Balm Base

Based on the composition of the Cleansing Balm (Colorless, Fragrance-Free) base (Product ID 31507), which is already an oil-rich system (approximately 73% oil/ester content and 15% emulsifiers), the addition of extra oil-based nourishing ingredients must be carefully controlled to maintain the product's texture and, most importantly, its cleansing and wash-off performance.

Recommended and Maximum Addition Percentage

1. Recommended Starting Percentage:

   • We recommend starting with a low percentage, typically 1-5% of the total formula. This range allows you to incorporate active oils (like Vitamin E, specific plant oils, or extracts) without significantly compromising the balm's solid texture or the emulsifier system's ability to rinse clean with water.

2. Maximum Addition Percentage:

   • The absolute maximum we recommend is 10%.
   • Caution: Adding more than 10% is highly risky. The base relies on a specific ratio of oils to emulsifiers (Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate and Peg-5 Glyceryl Triisostearate) to ensure it turns into a milky emulsion and washes off cleanly when mixed with water. Exceeding 10% will dilute the emulsifiers too much, which will likely result in:
     • A much softer or even liquid texture.
     • Poor wash-off performance, leaving an oily residue on the skin.

Important Considerations

• Test Incrementally: Always test the addition in small batches, increasing the percentage gradually (e.g., 1%, 3%, 5%, 7%, 10%) to find the sweet spot that provides the desired nourishment without sacrificing the cleansing function.
• Oil Type: If you add a very heavy or viscous oil, the texture will soften more quickly than if you add a light, low-viscosity oil.
• Melting and Mixing: Remember that the base must be melted before adding the oil and then poured into the final container to set back into a balm. Ensure the added oil is fully miscible with the base.