What is an Emulsifier? Why is it So Important?
The heart of a cream and lotion formulation is the emulsifier. Without these components, which ensure that oil and water remain stable together, it is not possible to produce cream. The correct emulsifier selection directly determines the cream's texture, absorption, and stability.
Olivem 1000 — Natural Cosmetics' Favorite
Olivem 1000 (Cetearyl Olivate & Sorbitan Olivate), derived from olive oil, is one of the most popular natural O/W emulsifiers approved by COSMOS ECOCERT. Thanks to its structure, which is similar to skin's lipid structure, it provides excellent biocompatibility.
- COSMOS ECOCERT approved, completely natural
- Light, silky feel — leaves no greasy residue
- Wide oil phase tolerance (5-30% oil)
- Ideal for sensitive skin
- Usage rate: 3-8%
BTMS 50 — Indispensable for Hair Care
BTMS 50, containing Behentrimonium Methosulfate, is a cationic emulsifier. It leaves a positive charge on the hair, adhering to negatively charged hair fibers and providing excellent conditioning effects.
- Ideal for hair conditioners and masks
- Prevents static electricity, improves combability
- Makes hair soft and shiny
- Can also be used in skincare
- Usage rate: 3-8% (hair), 2-5% (skin)
Glyceryl Stearate — Co-Emulsifier & Texturizer
Not an emulsifier on its own, it is used as a co-emulsifier. It imparts a velvety, rich texture to creams and increases emulsion stability.
- Rich, velvety feel for creams
- Increases emulsion stability
- Slight humectant properties
- Usage rate: 1-5%
Cetearyl Alcohol — The Building Block of Cream
Cetearyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener in skincare. Despite its name, it is not irritating; on the contrary, it is soothing.
- 50:50 (O/W): For water-based creams, light texture
- 30:70 (O/W): For richer, thicker creams
- Improves cream stability and texture
- Usage rate: 1-5%
Basic Cream Formula — with Olivem 1000 (100 grams)
| Raw Material | Rate (%) | Phase |
|---|---|---|
| Distilled Water | 70% | Water Phase |
| Glycerin | 5% | Water Phase |
| Olivem 1000 | 5% | Oil Phase |
| Cetearyl Alcohol 50:50 | 2% | Oil Phase |
| Glyceryl Stearate | 2% | Oil Phase |
| Jojoba Oil | 8% | Oil Phase |
| Shea Butter | 5% | Oil Phase |
| Microcare DB | 1% | Cool Down Phase |
| Lavender EO | 1% | Cool Down Phase |
| Niacinamide | 1% | Water Phase |
Hair Conditioner Formula — with BTMS 50 (100 grams)
| Raw Material | Rate (%) | Phase |
|---|---|---|
| Distilled Water | 78% | Water Phase |
| BTMS 50 | 6% | Oil Phase |
| Cetearyl Alcohol 30:70 | 3% | Oil Phase |
| Almond Oil | 5% | Oil Phase |
| Provitamin B5 | 2% | Water Phase |
| Hydrolyzed Collagen | 2% | Cool Down Phase |
| Microcare DB | 1% | Cool Down Phase |
| Ylang Ylang EO | 1% | Cool Down Phase |
| Bergamot EO | 1% | Cool Down Phase |
| Lavender EO | 1% | Cool Down Phase |