Cosmetic Emulsifiers
In the realm of cosmetic formulations, emulsifiers reign in important status as they enable the blending of water and oil phases to achieve stable and visually appealing emulsions. At CD Formulation, we take pride in offering a diverse range of industry-leading cosmetic emulsifiers that cater to a variety of formulation needs. Moreover, we go above and beyond by providing customizable emulsifiers exclusively tailored to meet the unique requirements of our customers.
How Do Emulsifiers Work?
Emulsifiers are surface-active ingredients that facilitate the formation and stabilization of emulsions. During the emulsification process, they bind to the surfaces of dispersed droplets, preventing coalescence by forming a protective film. The hydrophobic tail of the emulsifier orients into the oil phase while the hydrophilic head group interacts with the water phase.
Types of Our Cosmetic Emulsifiers
| Types | Introduction | Examples |
| Nonionic Emulsifiers | Derived from fatty alcohols, glycerides, and glycol derivatives, these are compatible with ionic ingredients. | Polyoxyethylene ethers, esters, gelatin, gum arabic, cellulose, starch, phosphoesters, lanolin, sterols |
| Anionic Emulsifiers | Based on soaps and sulfates, these negatively charged emulsifiers produce small stable droplets. | Carboxylates, sulfonates, sulfate ester salts, phosphate ester salts |
| Cationic Emulsifiers | Made from fatty quaternary ammonium salts, these positively charged emulsifiers have antimicrobial effects. | Alkylamines, amides, imidazolines, quaternary ammonium salts, ethylene oxide diamines, aminated lignin |
| Amphoteric Emulsifiers | Containing both acid and basic groups, these adjust between positive and negative charges. | Betaines, amino acids, imidazolines |
How to Choose Emulsifiers?
- Compatibility
Preservatives, active compounds, and oils in your formulation should be compatible with the emulsifier.
- Stability
Emulsifiers should provide long-term stability to the formulation, preventing phase separation or creaming over time.
- HLB Value
The Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) value of an emulsifier indicates its relative affinity for water or oil. Higher HLB values indicate a stronger affinity for water, making them suitable for oil-in-water emulsions, while lower HLB values favor oil-in-water emulsions.
- Texture and Feel
There is a significant influence that emulsifiers can have on the sensory experience of a cosmetic product. When selecting emulsifiers, make sure the desired texture and skin feel are taken into account. A light, silky texture can be provided by some emulsifiers, while a rich, nourishing appearance can be provided by others.
Precautions for Storing Cosmetic Emulsifiers
- Store in air-tight containers in a cool, dry location away from heat and sunlight.
- Avoid freezing temperatures which may cause crystallization.
- Periodically check containers for signs of moisture ingress.
- Follow first-in-first-out (FIFO) inventory management.
- Ensure production equipment is clean prior to transferring to process tanks.
CD Formulation understands the importance of emulsifiers in cosmetic formulation and is committed to providing reliable and superior-quality emulsifiers. Moreover, if you need customized services for cosmetic emulsifiers, please contact us!
Easy access to products and services you need from our library via powerful searching tools.