Sugar Scrub Cream Formula

To create a sugar scrub with a white cream or lotion texture using the ingredients you have (Shea Butter, Olive Oil, Almond Oil, Glycerin) and to extend its shelf life beyond 3 months, you will need to add an emulsifier and a broad-spectrum preservative, as well as distilled water.

An emulsifier is necessary to combine the oil-based ingredients (butters, oils) with the water-based ingredients (water, glycerin) into a stable cream. A preservative is crucial when water is present in the formula to prevent microbial growth and ensure the product remains safe and stable for longer than a few weeks.

Here is a basic formula structure and recommended ingredients from the website:

Basic Formula Structure

• Oil Phase:
  • Shea Butter: 5-10%
  • Olive Oil / Almond Oil (or a mix): 10-15%
  • Emulsifier: 3-7% (Choose one from the recommendations below)
• Water Phase:
  • Distilled Water: 20-30%
  • Glycerin: 3-5%
• Cool Down Phase:
  • Preservative: 0.5-1.5% (Choose one from the recommendations below)
  • Optional: Vitamin E (antioxidant), Fragrance/Essential Oil
• Exfoliant Phase:
  • Sugar (fine grain): 40-60%

Recommended Ingredients from MySkinRecipes

To create the cream texture and ensure a longer shelf life, you will need to purchase an emulsifier and a preservative:

Emulsifiers (Choose one or try different ones):

• Emulsifying Wax 1000: A common and reliable non-ionic emulsifying wax that creates stable oil-in-water emulsions (creams/lotions). It requires heating the oil and water phases.
• Light Lotion Maker: An ECOCERT-certified emulsifier that can create light-textured emulsions and can be used in a cold process (no heating required) if preferred.
• CreamMaker EG™: Another emulsifier that also acts as a thickener and stabilizer. It can be used in cold process formulations and provides a soft, light feel.

Preservatives (Choose one):

• PE 1090 Preservative: A broad-spectrum preservative (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin) effective in a wide pH range (3-12) and can withstand heat up to 80°C. It is a common and effective choice for cosmetic emulsions.
• Mild Preserved™ COS: A water-soluble, broad-spectrum preservative (Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Caprylyl Glycol) effective in a pH range of 2-8. It should be added to the formula when the temperature is below 45°C.

General Instructions:

1. Weigh all ingredients accurately.
2. Combine ingredients for the Oil Phase (including the chosen emulsifier) in one heat-resistant container. Combine distilled water and glycerin in another heat-resistant container for the Water Phase.
3. Heat both phases gently in a water bath until the oil phase is fully melted and both phases reach the required temperature for your chosen emulsifier (e.g., 70-75°C for Emulsifying Wax 1000, or no heat for cold process emulsifiers).
4. Slowly add the Water Phase to the Oil Phase while continuously mixing with a stick blender or whisk until a stable emulsion forms.
5. Allow the mixture to cool, stirring occasionally.
6. Once cooled below 40°C (or the recommended temperature for your preservative), add the chosen preservative and any optional ingredients (Vitamin E, fragrance). Mix well.
7. Add the fine-grain sugar gradually and mix until evenly distributed.
8. Package in clean, dry containers.

Remember to use fine-grain sugar or process regular sugar to a smaller size to avoid skin abrasion, as discussed previously. Always perform a small patch test before using any new cosmetic product.

By adding a suitable emulsifier and preservative, you can create a stable sugar scrub cream with a lotion-like texture that will last longer.