Leave-in Hair Lotion for Curly Hair

Here is a simple formulation for a leave-in hair lotion designed for curly hair to help define curls, add weight, and provide a smooth, non-sticky feel.

Regarding the safety of silicones like Cyclomethicone and Cyclopentasiloxane in leave-in products, these ingredients are widely used in hair care and are generally considered safe for topical application by regulatory bodies when used within recommended concentrations. They provide excellent conditioning, slip, and shine benefits without needing to be rinsed off.

Simple Leave-in Lotion Formula

• Water: q.s. to 100%
• Hair-Cond™ SM: 3% (Provides conditioning and detangling)
• Milk Lotion Maker™: 4% (Emulsifier to create lotion texture)
• LipidSoft™ D5: 5% (Light emollient, provides slip and replaces Cyclomethicone)
• Mild Preserved Eco™: 1% (Preservative)

Instructions:

1. Combine Water and Mild Preserved Eco™ in a beaker (Water Phase). Heat to approximately 70°C.
2. In a separate beaker, combine Milk Lotion Maker™ and LipidSoft™ D5 (Oil Phase). Heat to approximately 70°C.
3. Slowly add the Oil Phase to the Water Phase while stirring continuously with a high-speed mixer until an emulsion forms.
4. Continue stirring while cooling down.
5. Once the mixture has cooled below 40°C, add Hair-Cond™ SM and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Check the pH and adjust if necessary (usually around pH 4.5-5.5 is good for hair).

Alternative Conditioning Agent:

If you prefer a silicone-free option, you can replace Hair-Cond™ SM with Poly-Conditioner Pro (400 mPa.s) at a rate of 0.2-0.5%. Dissolve Poly-Conditioner Pro in the water phase by sprinkling it slowly while stirring and heating to 65°C before combining with the oil phase.

This formula provides conditioning benefits to help manage curly hair, reduce frizz, and enhance curl definition without feeling heavy or sticky.