Q&A

Q&A: How interchangeable are humectants?

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In this month’s Q&A, Susan asked, I’m wondering whether humectants are fully interchangeable, the same way that hydrolyzed proteins seem to be. Specifically, I’m looking at a Lotioncrafter formulation (Time Defy Facial Serum) which calls for butylene glycol but I don’t have any. I do have vegetable glycerin, honeyquat, sodium lactate, and propanediol 1-3. I’m hoping...

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Q&A: Can you use mineral oil or petroleum in my formulas for emulsions on the blog or in e-books?

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In this month’s Q&A, Ellie asked, Hi Susan, I have a few more questions! I know that petrolatum and mineral oil are approved, very effective, and may be less likely to cause allergies than other occlusive. I also happen to have them around! I love oils and butters, but I am trying to make a lotion...

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Q&A: How can we avoid incorporating air or increasing the volume of emulsions?

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In this month’s Q&A, Michael asked, I’ve got a question about equipment or technique. I’ve been enjoying the Newbie Tuesday and Formulating Friday series, however I notice I’m incorporating air into my thicker creams, I don’t mind the air but sometimes I want to reduce it. What I am doing is firstly using a stick blender to emulsify the...

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Q&A: How does one work with hydroxethyl cellulose (HEC)?

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In this month’s Q&A, Sehrish asked, I want to know about hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC). Does it require a mixing with mixer or homogenizer? I have heard about it that the product becomes thin if it doesn’t mixes properly.. Hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC) is a rheology modifier or thickener for water. It’s a non-ionic or neutrally charged polymer used to thicken...

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Q&A: Adding vitamin E to oils when we receive them to slow down rancidity?

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In this month’s Q&A, GiannaFromMN asked, You say the only stupid question is one that goes unasked, so here we go: I’ve heard it mentioned in a few different places now that we should add tocopherols to our ingredient oils when we get them from the suppliers, to make their shelf lives as long as possible....

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