Recommended Solubilizers for Oil in Water-Based Toner/Spray (Up to 10% Oil)

Asked by: chocollate1313 On: April 27, 2020 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I would like to formulate a liquid product similar to a toner or spray, based on water, and incorporating oil at a concentration of up to 10%. Could you please recommend suitable solubilizers for this purpose?

Answer

Recommended Solubilizers for Toner/Spray Formulations with up to 10% Oil

To incorporate oil up to 10% into a water base to achieve a low-viscosity liquid similar to a toner or spray that is clear or translucent, the appropriate ingredients are Solubilizers. These help to stably disperse the oil in water without separation.

Suitable Solubilizer products include:

  • Ultra Solve™ and Eco Solve™: These are high-performance solubilizers capable of dissolving various types of oils, including natural oils, Vitamin E, or certain preservatives in water-based formulas. They are easy to use by mixing the Ultra Solve™ or Eco Solve™ with the oil phase first, then adding this mixture to the water phase. The typical usage rate is 1-10% of the total formula. The exact amount depends on the specific oil used.
  • Free Solve™ (PEG-Free Solubilizer): This is a high-performance solubilizer that is free from all PEGs, suitable for those who prefer to avoid PEG ingredients. It effectively dissolves oils, fragrances, and essential oils in water, providing clarity and stability to hot and cold temperatures. Similar to Ultra Solve™ and Eco Solve™, mix it with the oil phase first before adding to the water phase. Use at a rate of 1-10% of the total formula.
  • Flora Solve™ Clear (Fragrance Solubilizer): This is particularly suitable for dissolving fragrances (Fragrance Oil) or Essential Oil in a water base without using alcohol, resulting in a clear and stable formula. Should mix Flora Solve™ Clear with the fragrance or essential oil first at a ratio of 2-5 parts Flora Solve™ Clear to 1 part fragrance/essential oil. Then, add this mixture to the water base.
  • PPG-6-Decyltetradeceth-30: Another type of solubilizer with an HLB value around 12. It can help combine oil with water, offering low foaming and good low-temperature stability. Use at a rate of approximately 1-5% of the total formula.

General Usage Method:

  1. Mix the chosen Solubilizer with the oil phase (e.g., cosmetic oil, fragrance, essential oil) in a separate container. Stir or blend well (some types may benefit from slight heating for better dissolution, follow product recommendations).
  2. Gradually add the dissolved oil mixture into the water phase (or water-based formula) little by little, while continuously stirring or agitating until a uniform mixture is achieved with the desired clarity and stability.

Considerations:

The amount of Solubilizer needed will depend on the type and quantity of oil used in your formula. It is recommended to perform small-scale tests to determine the optimal ratio for your specific formula to achieve the desired clarity and stability.