Thick Face Cream Formulation with Baking Soda and Stearic Acid
Question
I would like a formula recipe with the quantity of each ingredient for a skin cream (specifically a thick face cream).
Ingredients to use:
- Water
- Stearic acid
- Coconut oil
- Baking soda
- Essential oils for scent
Please also recommend a suitable preservative for this formula.
Answer
To create a thick face cream using your requested ingredients, we have formulated a recipe that includes a specialized emulsifier to ensure the oil and water combine into a stable, luxurious texture.
Important Technical Note
The inclusion of Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda) will raise the pH of the cream significantly (likely to pH 8-9). While this is sometimes used in specific applications, please be aware that the skin's natural pH is approximately 5.5. A high-pH cream may cause dryness or irritation for some skin types. Additionally, when mixing Baking Soda with Stearic Acid, a small amount of carbon dioxide gas may be released; stir slowly to allow any bubbles to escape.
Thick Face Cream Formulation
| Phase | Ingredient | Percentage | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| A (Oil) | Fractionated Coconut Oil | 12.0% | Emollient (Light & Non-greasy) |
| A (Oil) | Stearic Acid | 4.0% | Thickener & Texture Enhancer |
| A (Oil) | Butter Cream Maker™ | 5.0% | High-Stability Emulsifier |
| B (Water) | Distilled Water | 76.5% | Solvent |
| B (Water) | Sodium Bicarbonate | 1.0% | pH Adjuster / Active |
| C (Cool) | Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure) | 1.0% | Preservative (pH stable) |
| C (Cool) | Essential Oils | 0.5% | Scent |
| Total | 100.0% |
Recommended Ingredients
- Emulsifier: Butter Cream Maker™ is recommended because it is specifically designed to handle high-electrolyte formulas and a wide pH range (3-12), ensuring your cream stays thick and stable despite the baking soda.
- Preservative: Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure) is the ideal choice here as it remains effective in alkaline environments (up to pH 9) and is gentle on the skin.
- Oil: Fractionated Coconut Oil is preferred for face creams over standard coconut oil because it is liquid, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), and has a much longer shelf life.
Mixing Instructions
- Heat Phase A: Combine the Coconut Oil, Stearic Acid, and Butter Cream Maker™ in a heat-proof container. Heat to approximately 75-80°C until everything is melted.
- Heat Phase B: Dissolve the Sodium Bicarbonate in the distilled water and heat to the same temperature (75-80°C).
- Emulsify: Slowly pour Phase A (Oil) into Phase B (Water) while stirring or using a hand blender. Continue blending until a smooth, white emulsion forms.
- Cool Down: Allow the mixture to cool while stirring occasionally. Once the temperature drops below 40°C, add Phase C (Phenoxyethanol and Essential Oils).
- Finalize: Mix thoroughly. The cream will reach its final thickness after 12-24 hours.