Solvent for Phytosphingosine SA and Clover Flower Extract in Emulsifier-Free Toner
Asked by: Anonymous
On: February 21, 2026
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
May I ask which solvent Phytosphingosine SA can be dissolved in beforehand? I am planning to create a toner formulation with the following requirements:
- Ingredients to include:
Clover Flower ExtractandPhytosphingosine SA. - Constraint: I want to make this toner without using any emulsifiers.
Answer
To incorporate Phytosphingosine SA and Clover Flower Extract (Biochanin A 98%) into your toner formula, you will need specific solvents for each ingredient as they have different solubility profiles:
1. Solvent for Phytosphingosine SA
Phytosphingosine SA is an oil-soluble powder. According to the manufacturer's instructions, it is best dissolved in:
- Octyldodecanol: This is the recommended solvent to ensure maximum efficiency and prevent the ingredient from crystallizing (precipitating) in the formula.
- Ratio: Use 6-7% Octyldodecanol for 0.1% Phytosphingosine SA, or 12-14% Octyldodecanol for 0.2% Phytosphingosine SA.
- Method: You must heat the mixture of Octyldodecanol and Phytosphingosine SA to 80-90°C until it is completely dissolved into a clear liquid before adding it to the rest of the formula.
2. Solvent for Clover Flower Extract
Clover Flower Extract (Biochanin A 98%) can be dissolved in the following solvents before being added to the formula:
- Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI)
- Isopentyldiol
Important Formulation Advice for a Toner
Since you want to create a Toner without using emulsifiers, you should be aware of the following:
- Solubility Challenge: Phytosphingosine SA requires an oil-phase solvent (Octyldodecanol). In a water-based toner, this oil phase will naturally separate from the water.
- Bi-phase Toner: Without an emulsifier or solubilizer, your product will become a "bi-phase" toner (two separate layers) that must be shaken well before each use.
- Single-phase (Clear) Toner: If you want a clear, single-phase water toner, you would typically need a solubilizer to bridge the oil-soluble components (Phytosphingosine SA + Octyldodecanol) with the water phase. Without a solubilizer or emulsifier, it is not possible to create a stable, uniform water-based solution with these ingredients.
Mixing Summary:
- Dissolve Phytosphingosine SA in Octyldodecanol using heat (80-90°C).
- Dissolve Clover Flower Extract in DMI or Isopentyldiol.
- If making a water-based toner, combine the water-soluble parts first, then add the oil-soluble part (expect separation if no emulsifier is used).
Related Products Mentioned
Phytosphingosine SA
Cosmetics
Octyldodecanol (e.q. Eutanol G)
Cosmetics
Isopentyldiol
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Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI)
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Clover Flower Extract (Biochanin A 98%)
Cosmetics