Selecting Base for High Concentration (10-30%) Water-Soluble Herbal Extract in Pet Lotion/Spray
Question
I am developing a pet product (lotion or spray) using a Water-Soluble Herbal Extract. I plan to incorporate this extract at a high concentration, ranging from 10% to 30%.
Since the extract is highly water-soluble and does not require a solubilizer, what pre-made cosmetic bases are recommended for both a lotion/cream formulation (Oil-in-Water type) and a low-viscosity spray formulation to ensure stability and proper incorporation of the active ingredient?
Answer
Based on your confirmation that your herbal extract is Water-Soluble and you intend to use it at a high concentration (10-30%), here are the recommendations for developing a pet spray or lotion base:
1. Recommendation for Lotion/Cream (Oil-in-Water, O/W)
Since your active ingredient is highly water-soluble, an Oil-in-Water (O/W) emulsion is the most suitable base type. O/W emulsions have a continuous water phase, allowing them to easily incorporate high amounts of water-soluble extracts while maintaining stability and a pleasant texture.
Recommended Base:
- Moisturizing Lotion Base (Compare to Cetaphil) (ID 35706)
- Type: O/W Emulsion (Lotion/Cream)
- Suitability: This base is designed to accept water-soluble active ingredients (with a recommended pH range of 4-7). It provides excellent moisturizing properties, which is beneficial for pet skin health.
- Mixing Method: Slowly add your 10-30% water-soluble extract to the base while stirring gently until fully homogenous.
2. Recommendation for Spray (Aqueous Solution)
For a spray product with a high concentration of water-soluble extract (10-30%), the ideal base is a simple Aqueous Solution (water-based) with low viscosity.
Product Consideration (Use with Caution):
- 8 Hours Fragrance Spray Base (Musk-Free) (ID 125325)
- Type: Alcohol-based spray base (primarily Ethyl Alcohol, Dipropylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol).
- Caution: This base is primarily designed for fragrances (oil-soluble) and contains a high percentage of alcohol. Adding 10-30% of a water-soluble extract (which is mostly water) will significantly dilute the alcohol content. This may cause the final product to become cloudy, separate, or become unstable.
- Recommendation: If you choose this base, you must perform small-scale stability tests immediately.
Better Alternative for High Water-Soluble Content:
A more reliable approach for a stable, clear spray with 10-30% water-soluble extract is to use a simple Aqueous Base (Purified Water + Humectants + Preservative). If you require a pre-made base, look for one specifically labeled as an "Aqueous Spray Base" or "Toner Base" that is designed to handle high water-soluble additions without relying heavily on alcohol.
Summary of Base Type:
| Product Form | Recommended Base Type | Suitable Product |
|---|---|---|
| Lotion/Cream | Oil-in-Water (O/W) Emulsion | Moisturizing Lotion Base (ID 35706) |
| Spray | Aqueous Solution (Water-Based) | Simple Aqueous Base (or test ID 125325 with caution) |
