Water in Oil vs Oil in Water Emulsions
Asked by: keng.walinlug
On: June 18, 2014
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
Could you please explain the difference between Water in Oil (W/O) and Oil in Water (O/W) emulsions? What are their characteristics, and how do emulsifiers like Soy Lecithin relate to them?
Answer
Subject: Water in oil VS oil in water
The difference between Water in Oil (W/O) and Oil in Water (O/W) emulsions lies in which phase is continuous (the main part) and which is dispersed (the part mixed within the main part).
- Oil in Water (O/W): This is an emulsion where oil droplets are dispersed in a continuous water phase. Water is the main component. Examples include most lotions, creams, and milk. These emulsions are typically lighter and feel less greasy.
- Water in Oil (W/O): This is an emulsion where water droplets are dispersed in a continuous oil phase. Oil is the main component. Examples include some heavy creams, ointments, and butter. These emulsions are typically richer, heavier, and can feel more occlusive (forming a barrier on the skin).
Emulsifiers, like the Soy Lecithin you mentioned, are substances used to stabilize these mixtures and prevent the oil and water phases from separating. Different emulsifiers have varying affinities for oil and water, which influences whether they are better suited for creating O/W or W/O emulsions.