Creating larger (and smaller) batches: An quick aside on measuring smaller amounts with 1 gram scales!

Welcome back to this short series on scaling up our products and making larger batches! In part one, we looked at scales and measuring, then saw how going a little over/under in a smaller batch might result in larger batches with different properties for anhydrous whipped shea butters. In part two, we looked at how...

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Some thoughts on ingredient shortages, making substitutions, and trying different ingredients as we work through making changes for a conditioner bar formula

There’s a serious shortage of ingredients out there. As I mentioned in this month’s new substitution request page, it’s not only the busiest time of year for our suppliers as people buy supplies for Christmas markets and presents; we’re also in the middle of a pandemic that has disrupted the entire supply chain from the...

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Q&A: Should I pre-dissolve panthenol in water to make a solution? Should I have a powdered and liquid version?

In this month’s Q&A, Susan wrote, Happy day to you! I only have the powdered form of panthenol at the moment. It’s from Formulator Sample Shop, with a recommended usage rate of 1-5%. To make it a more versatile ingredient, I’m wondering which of the following scenarios might be best … 1) Should I turn the...

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Q&A: Is there a way to identify powder and liquid ingredients?

In this month’s Q&A, Susan asked, I am wondering if there are any patterns within your formulations which might help me determine whether powdered or liquid ingredients are called for. For instance, I’ve noticed that powdered extracts tend to appear as 0.5% whereas liquid extracts appears as 5%. Additionally, panthenol appears as a powder in...

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

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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