Guide to Using SugarThick™ in Facial Cleanser Formulation

Based on your experience and the expert advice provided, the initial difficulty you faced with SugarThick™ not forming a gel was likely due to the mixing method. SugarThick™ (PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate) is a thickener specifically designed to work with surfactants in cleansing formulations.

Correct Method for Using SugarThick™

To achieve the desired gel texture with SugarThick™:

1. Combine Water-Soluble Ingredients: Start by mixing your surfactants (such as Coco-Betaine and BabyFoam™) and other water-soluble components (like Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, and Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids) with the main water phase.
2. Add SugarThick™: Add the required amount of SugarThick™ (you found 3% worked well) to this mixture containing the surfactants.
3. Gentle Warming (Optional): While not strictly necessary, gently warming the mixture to around 50-60°C can help SugarThick™ dissolve and integrate faster. Avoid excessive heat.
4. Stir and Allow Time: Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly. SugarThick™ requires time to hydrate and react with the surfactants to build viscosity. The thickening occurs gradually, so be patient and avoid over-stirring, which can create unwanted foam.

Your successful attempt by mixing the surfactants first, then warming slightly and adding SugarThick™ while stirring confirms this method.

Your Formula and Mildness

Your formula includes:

• Water
• Coco-Betaine 10%
• BabyFoam™ 10%
• Glycerin 10%
• Propylene Glycol 10%
• Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids 2%
• SugarThick™ 3%
• Lactic Acid (2 small drops)

The discussion confirmed that the total surfactant concentration (Coco-Betaine and BabyFoam™) in your formula is relatively low, which contributes to its mildness and prevents dryness. Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids also contribute to skin moisture, although their effect might be limited at a 2% concentration.

If you find the cleansing performance insufficient or wish to explore alternatives, AminoWash™ (Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate) was suggested as a gentle surfactant option that has a skin-friendly pH (around 5.6) and does not require pH adjustment, unlike Lauryl Glucoside which is alkaline.

By following the correct mixing procedure for SugarThick™, you can achieve the desired gel consistency for a pleasant cleansing experience.