Thickening Cream for Jar Packaging and Alternative Cream Makers

Question

I am formulating a cream containing Pitera and Rosehip Oil using Light Cream Maker™. I want to achieve a thick texture suitable for packaging in a jar, similar to the consistency of a balm or butter, that can be scooped out.

Based on the previous discussion, increasing the percentage of Light Cream Maker™ was suggested, but I am concerned about the texture becoming flaky. Adding Xanthan Gum was also mentioned.

I also saw a product on the website that seemed like a "Rich Cream Maker" (though the staff said there isn't one with that exact name) which appeared to create a very thick, almost solid texture from the picture. What are the best methods to achieve this thick, scoopable texture for my cream, considering increasing Light Cream Maker™, adding Xanthan Gum, or using other types of Cream Makers? Could you elaborate on the alternative Cream Makers that produce thicker textures and how they compare to thickening with Light Cream Maker™ or Xanthan Gum?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

How to Thicken Your Pitera + Rosehip Oil Cream

You're looking to make your Pitera and Rosehip Oil cream thicker so it can be stored in a jar. There are a few ways to achieve a thicker consistency, building on the previous suggestions and addressing the question about "Rich Cream Maker".

Methods to Increase Cream Thickness

Increase Light Cream Maker™: As the staff suggested, you can increase the proportion of Light Cream Maker™ in your formula. The product description indicates that using a higher ratio (e.g., 1.5% or 2.0%) can help thicken the cream. However, be mindful that using too much can make it excessively thick, potentially making it hard to dispense. Also, ensure sufficient stirring during mixing to avoid a flaky texture when applied.
Add Xanthan Gum: Another effective method mentioned by the staff is adding Xanthan Gum to the water phase of your formula. Xanthan Gum is a thickener that increases the viscosity of the water portion. You typically use a small percentage (around 0.1-2%) to achieve the desired thickness. It dissolves in water and can help create a more viscous gel-like structure within the cream.
Consider a Different Cream Maker: While there isn't a product specifically named "Rich Cream Maker," other cream makers are designed to produce thicker textures than Light Cream Maker™. For instance:
- Butter Cream Maker™: This emulsifier is designed to create thick, butter-like textures, especially when used at higher rates (5-6%) and potentially combined with ingredients like Cetyl Alcohol. It is also resistant to electrolytes and a wide pH range, which can be beneficial depending on your full formula. Note that this type typically requires heating during the mixing process and takes time to set.
- Soft Cream Maker™: This also creates a creamy texture and can be thickened by using a larger proportion (5-10%) or adding ingredients like Glyceryl Stearate SE or Cetyl Alcohol. Like Butter Cream Maker, it requires heat and takes about 48 hours to reach its final consistency.

Which Method Should You Choose?

If you want to slightly increase the thickness of your current formula while keeping the mixing process simple (no heat required), try increasing the Light Cream Maker™ first, following the staff's advice on stirring.
If you need more significant thickening, especially in the water phase, adding Xanthan Gum is a good option and can be used in conjunction with Light Cream Maker™.
If you are looking to create a significantly richer, thicker cream texture suitable for a jar, and are willing to adjust your formulation process (potentially incorporating heating), exploring Butter Cream Maker™ or Soft Cream Maker™ might be suitable alternatives to achieve a different kind of thick texture compared to just thickening a Light Cream Maker base.

Both Pitera (Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate) and Rose Hip Oil are compatible with these types of thickeners and cream makers, but always ensure proper mixing and stability when adjusting your formula.

Experimenting with a small batch is recommended to find the best method and proportion for your desired cream texture.