Gentle Shampoo Formulation with Biotin Express, Urea, and Triacetin

Based on your plan to create a gentle shampoo formula using Sulfate Free Shampoo Base and incorporating Biotin Express (1%), Urea (5%), and Triacetin (0.5%), here is guidance on selecting and using solvents for Triacetin:

Suitability of Solvents

Both Ethoxydiglycol and 1,3-Propanediol are suitable solvents for Triacetin and can be effectively used in shampoo formulations. They are miscible with water and can help incorporate Triacetin into your formula.

• Ethoxydiglycol: This is a common cosmetic solvent and carrier. The high-purity cosmetic grade is considered safe for use, including in rinse-off products like shampoo, within recommended limits (up to 10% for rinse-off products).
• 1,3-Propanediol: This ingredient is a natural-derived alternative to traditional glycols. It functions as a solvent, humectant, and can enhance the feel of the product on the skin. It is generally considered very gentle and is well-suited for sensitive skin formulations.

For a gentle, sensitive skin shampoo formula, 1,3-Propanediol is often the preferred choice due to its mildness and skin-friendly properties.

Recommended Usage Percentage for a 1kg Formula

To effectively dissolve 0.5% (5 grams) of Triacetin in your 1kg formula, you will need a sufficient amount of solvent. While the minimum required amount can vary, a usage rate of 2-5% for 1,3-Propanediol is a suitable range to ensure the Triacetin is fully dissolved and integrated into the water-based shampoo system.

For your 1kg formula, this means using 20 to 50 grams of 1,3-Propanediol.

Your planned percentages for the active ingredients are appropriate:

• Biotin Express: 1% (10 grams)
• Urea: 5% (50 grams)
• Triacetin: 0.5% (5 grams)

Example Calculation for a 1kg Formula (using 3% 1,3-Propanediol and 30% Shampoo Base):

• Biotin Express: 10g
• Urea: 50g
• Triacetin: 5g
• 1,3-Propanediol: 30g
• Sulfate Free Shampoo Base: 300g
• Water and other ingredients (e.g., preservative, fragrance, thickener): 605g (to reach 1000g total)

Mixing Instructions

1. Dissolve the Triacetin completely in the chosen solvent (e.g., 1,3-Propanediol) in a separate container.
2. Dissolve the Urea in the water phase of your formula.
3. Combine the dissolved Triacetin/solvent mixture with the water phase containing Urea.
4. Add the Biotin Express liquid.
5. Gently incorporate this mixture into your Sulfate Free Shampoo Base, stirring until uniform. Avoid vigorous mixing to prevent excessive foaming.
6. Add any other desired ingredients (preservative, fragrance, etc.) and adjust viscosity if necessary.

Using 1,3-Propanediol at 2-5% will help ensure the Triacetin is well-dispersed in your gentle shampoo formula while contributing to a pleasant feel.