Storage of Mixed Cosmetic Cream

Subject: Storage of Mixed Cream

Hello,

Thank you for your question regarding the storage of mixed cream.

You are correct that some individual raw materials and ingredients are recommended to be stored in a refrigerator or at low temperatures to maintain their stability before being used in a formulation.

However, once these ingredients are mixed together to create a finished cream product, the storage recommendations often change. Finished cosmetic formulations are typically designed to be stable at room temperature (around 20-25°C) for their intended shelf life.

Storing a finished cream in the refrigerator is generally not recommended for most standard formulations. While it might seem logical to keep it cold, refrigeration can sometimes negatively impact the stability and texture of the cream. Potential issues include:

• Phase Separation: The emulsion (mixture of oil and water) might break, causing the cream to separate.
• Texture Changes: The cream's consistency might become too thick, too thin, or grainy.
• Condensation: Taking the cold cream out into a warmer environment can cause condensation inside the container, potentially introducing moisture and increasing the risk of microbial growth.

Therefore, unless the specific formulation you are using explicitly states that refrigeration is required, it is generally best to store your mixed cream in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. This helps maintain the product's intended stability, texture, and effectiveness throughout its shelf life.

Regarding the previous reply, while forum threads can be helpful, based on general cosmetic science principles, storing finished creams at room temperature in a cool, dark place is usually the standard recommendation.

We hope this clarifies your question.