ZeoHeat™ Activation and Formulation in Anhydrous Cosmetics

Based on the issue you're facing with ZeoHeat™ in your anhydrous formulation, here is a detailed guide to help you achieve the desired heating effect.

1. How ZEOHEAT™ Activates

ZeoHeat™ is composed of Zeolite, a mineral with a porous structure. It generates heat through an exothermic process of adsorbing water molecules. The manufacturing process involves a "heat drying" step, which removes water and essentially 'loads' the Zeolite with thermal energy. This energy is then rapidly released as heat when the Zeolite comes into contact with water again.

2. Water is Essential for Activation

Yes, water is absolutely required to trigger the heating effect. Without water, the stored thermal energy cannot be released. The reaction will not occur in a completely anhydrous environment unless water is introduced upon application (e.g., from skin moisture or humidity).

3. Compatibility with Anhydrous Systems

ZeoHeat™ is perfectly compatible with anhydrous and oil-based systems. In fact, it must be formulated in a water-free base to prevent it from activating prematurely within the product itself. Your formulation base (propylene glycol, oil, kaolin) is appropriate, but it lacks the necessary activator (water) for the reaction to occur when the customer uses it.

4. The Most Likely Cause of Failure & The Solution

The most common reason for failure in a scenario like yours is that the ZeoHeat™ powder has already been exposed to moisture before being added to your formulation. Zeolite is highly hygroscopic and can easily absorb humidity from the air, causing it to release its heat prematurely and become inert.

Expert Recommendation (The Solution):
To ensure maximum effectiveness, you should heat-dry the ZeoHeat™ powder just before you formulate with it. This removes any ambient moisture it has absorbed.

• How to Dry: Spread the powder in a thin layer on a heat-proof dish and place it in an oven at 110-120°C for 1-2 hours. Let it cool in a desiccator or a tightly sealed container before immediately incorporating it into your completely water-free formulation.

5. Recommended Usage and Safety

• Usage Rate: The recommended usage rate for ZeoHeat™ is 1-5%. The 15% you are using is significantly higher than recommended and could lead to excessive heat and potential skin irritation or burns once activated. Please reduce the concentration to within the recommended range.
• Processing: Add the pre-dried ZeoHeat™ powder to your anhydrous base and mix well to ensure it is evenly dispersed.

6. Tips to Maximize the Heating Effect

1. Pre-dry the Powder: This is the most critical step, as explained above.
2. Instruct the User: The final product should be applied to damp skin. The water on the skin will activate the ZeoHeat™ and create the warming sensation.
3. Occlusion: Formulating with occlusive ingredients can trap the heat and moisture, prolonging the warming sensation.

By pre-drying the ZeoHeat™ and ensuring water is present during application, you should be able to achieve the desired warming effect in your formulation.