Reducing Coconut Odor in Facial Foam Formulation

Asked by: pinthip_nong On: March 23, 2019 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I am making a facial foam with the following ingredients:

  • Coco Wash (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate)
  • MakeUp-Wash (PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides)
  • Preservative
  • Water
  • Fragrance

Over time, the foam develops a very strong coconut odor. What ingredients can help reduce this coconut smell?

Answer

Reducing Coconut Odor in Facial Foam

The facial foam formulation you described, containing Coco Wash (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate) and MakeUp-Wash (PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides), water, preservative, and fragrance, is experiencing a strong coconut odor over time, likely originating from the Coco Wash ingredient.

To help reduce or mask this coconut smell, you can consider adding a deodorizing agent to your formulation. Here are a few options that are water-soluble and suitable for cosmetic applications:

  • Odor-Kill™ (Maltodextrin): This is a water-soluble powder that can absorb various odors, including chemical and natural ingredient smells. It can be added to the water phase of your formulation. However, be aware that it can also absorb fragrance, so it might reduce the intensity of your added perfume.
  • CleanTea™ Liquid (Green Tea Extract Deodorizer): This is a liquid green tea extract that is effective at suppressing various odors, including ingredient smells. It is water-soluble and can be added to your formulation.
  • SugarClean™ (Sugarcane Extract Deodorizer): This is a liquid sugarcane extract that is also effective at suppressing various odors, including ingredient smells. It is water-soluble. Note that this ingredient is not suitable for oral care products.

Alternatively, you could try increasing the concentration of your fragrance or consider using a fragrance encapsulation service like AromaLock™. Encapsulating the fragrance can help it release more slowly and last longer, potentially masking the coconut odor more effectively over time.

When incorporating a deodorizer, start with a low concentration as recommended for the specific product and adjust as needed. It is also important to ensure your preservative system is effective, as microbial growth can sometimes contribute to off-odors.