Alternatives to Xanthan Gum in Lotion to Prevent Pilling

It sounds like you are experiencing pilling (the formation of small balls or rolls of product on the skin) when using Xanthan Gum and Satin Cream Maker in your lotion formulation. This is a common issue that can occur for several reasons, including:

• Incompatibility between polymers: Xanthan Gum is a polysaccharide, while Satin Cream Maker is a synthetic polymer (Sodium Acrylates Copolymer). Sometimes, mixing different types of polymers in a single formula can lead to incompatibility and pilling.
• Insufficient hydration or mixing: If the Xanthan Gum is not fully hydrated or properly dispersed and mixed into the formula, it can lead to clumps and uneven texture, contributing to pilling.
• High concentration of polymers: Using a high percentage of gelling agents or thickeners can sometimes increase the likelihood of pilling.

Regarding your question about insufficient blending, yes, it is possible that not blending the Xanthan Gum long enough or effectively could contribute to the pilling issue. Ensuring the gum is fully hydrated and evenly dispersed before combining phases is crucial.

To address the pilling and potentially achieve a smoother texture, you can consider using alternative thickeners or gelling agents. Here are a few options that might work well in a lotion formulation, potentially in combination with or as an alternative to Satin Cream Maker:

• AnyGel™ (Dehydroxanthan Gum): This is a modified Xanthan Gum that offers good resistance to electrolytes and provides a non-greasy gel texture. It might offer better compatibility and a smoother feel compared to standard Xanthan Gum.
• SepGEL 305 (Polyacrylamide & C13-14 Isoparaffin & Laureth-7): This is a versatile thickener and emulsifier that works without heat. It can be added to either the oil or water phase and is known for creating a creamy texture quickly. However, note that it does not tolerate electrolytes well.
• Aristoflex AVC (Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer): This ingredient acts as both a gel-forming agent and an emulsifier. It can create clear gels and help stabilize oil in water emulsions. It is soluble in water and easy to use.
• Sepimax Zen (Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6): This is a highly tolerant thickener and emulsion stabilizer that works well across a wide pH range and is resistant to salts. It is used to create gel texture in the water phase.
• CreamMaker EG™ (Sodium Acrylate / Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer & Isohexadecane & Polysorbate 80): Similar to Satin Cream Maker in its polymer type, this ingredient is a thickener and stabilizer that can improve texture and create supple gels. It can be added to either the oil or water phase.

When trying alternatives, start with a low recommended usage rate and adjust as needed to achieve your desired viscosity. You may also need to experiment with the mixing method and order of adding ingredients to ensure proper hydration and dispersion of the gelling agent.

Consider trying one of these alternatives in your formula to see if it helps reduce or eliminate the pilling issue while providing a desirable texture.