Using Sodium Alginate (Super Fine) for Beads in Cream
Question
I am interested in using `Sodium Alginate (Super Fine)` to create beads within a cream formulation. I have a few questions regarding its use:
1. What are the characteristics of `Sodium Alginate` and how should it be mixed? Specifically, does it need to be dissolved in water first before mixing with other extracts that I want to include inside the beads?
2. What type of packaging is suitable for a cream product containing these beads? Can pump bottles be used?
3. How do the beads behave upon application to the face? Do they break to release the active ingredients?
Answer
Hello, I understand you are interested in Sodium Alginate (Super Fine) for creating beads in cream formulations. Regarding your questions, please see the explanations below:
Substance characteristics and mixing: Sodium Alginate is a powder that needs to be dissolved in water to form a gel first. This Sodium Alginate gel is then dropped into a solution containing calcium ions (such as Calcium Chloride) to undergo a cross-linking reaction and form beads. So, yes, it needs to be dissolved in water before mixing with other extracts you want to include in the beads.
Packaging: The process of creating beads often involves using a dropper or syringe to control the size and shape of the beads during manufacturing. As for the packaging of the finished product containing the beads, various types can be used, including pump bottles, provided the overall gel consistency and bead size allow them to flow through the pump head without damage.
Application on the face: Yes, as confirmed by the staff, the beads made from Sodium Alginate are designed to break upon application to the face, releasing the active ingredients contained within the beads.
I hope this information is helpful. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask.