EMULSIFIERS IN SKIN CARE, WHAT IS THE PURPOSE?
Many of us know that emulsifier is an important element in creating a successful lotion or cream. Not only that. Emulsifiers are key ingredient and one of the most important formulas in cosmetic products that are so widely used throughout the cosmetics industry because of their prime functionality to emulsify and stabilize mixture. They are also considered an easy and inexpensive way of combining unlike ingredients together so that they don’t separate. Another good point worth mentioning is that emulsifiers can help enhance the absorption of skincare ingredients.
Emulsifiers have both water and oil loving components thus they work as a “glue” to keep both the oil and water phases of your lotion together to form a stable mixture. Its molecules have one side that attracts water and one side that attracts oil. When putting the right amount of emulsifier into an oil/water mixture, each emulsifier molecule will attach water and oil molecules in each of its sides, to form a stable mixture.
However, not all skincare products need an emulsifier. For instance, if your recipe calls for just some essential oils and fragrance oils to mix into a carrier oil, no emulsifier is necessary. The carrier oil will dilute the oil and there is no water-based product to cause separation. Same goes for blending a small percentage of essential oils into a lotion or butter.
WHAT IS EMULSIFIER FRANCE?
Emulsifier France is made of 100% plant where the sugar (xylose) is derived from wheat straw. This emulsifier is easy to use and the ability to create very stable emulsions making it ideal even for beginners. Perfect for lotion or rich cream textures which are not so greasy. You can use around 5% or less in a lotion/cream recipe or and other products that require emulsification. When you use emulsifier France you won’t go wrong because it is so simple to use.
Your DIY skincare journey as a beginner should consist of simple product like Emulsifier France to start off with your formulation of lotion or cream. Undoubtedly, every formulator may experience unstable emulsions at times, but with Emulsifier France, we assure you that your lotion or cream is always at its perfect consistency!
To learn more about this product, please click onto this link https://greenherbology.com/product/emulsifier-france-lotion-and-cream/
You can find this superb product at our website, Lazada and Shopee and packing comes in 3 sizes, ie. 10ml, 50ml and 100ml at very reasonable prices.
WHAT ARE THE TWO TYPES OF EMULSIONS?
An emulsion is a mixture of two or more liquids that are normally unblendable. In every emulsion there is a continuous phase (dispersion medium) that suspends the droplets of the other element which is called the dispersed phase. Both the dispersed phase and dispersion medium are liquids. The dispersed phase is usually present in a small amount whereas the dispersion medium is usually appeared in a large amount. The two basic types of emulsion are oil in water (O/W) and water in oil (W/O).
Oil-in-water emulsions (O/W)
The emulsion in which oil is present as the dispersed phase and water as the continuous phase (dispersion medium) is called an oil-in-water emulsion. Since the dispersion medium is water, this kind of emulsion can be found in applications which have a small amount of fatty material such as moisturizing creams and lotions which are less greasy. When absorbed into the skin there is very little to no oily residue.
In recipe whereby oil is dispersed in water, water will encase the oil so therefore the water will touch the skin first. These are also great emulsion recipes in situations where you are looking for moisture to be one of the benefits of the lotion or cream.
Water-in-oil emulsion (W/O)
The emulsion in which water forms the dispersed phase, and the oil acts as the dispersion medium is called a water-in-oil emulsion. This emulsion is quite thick and greasy in nature and the level of greasiness depends on the formula – all of which will be absorbed into the skin.
In this case, oil will encase the water so therefore the oils will touch the skin first. Of course, there will be some greasiness in the feel of the lotion once applied to the skin. These recipes are great for emphasizing the benefits of oil when applied directly to the skin.
DO WE NEED TO ADD PRESERVATIVE INTO HOMEMADE LOTION?
What are Preservatives?
Preservatives are natural or synthetic ingredients that are added to skincare products to prevent micro-organisms growth, inadvertent contamination or undesirable chemical changes. Since skincare is considered as food for your skin, therefore preservatives in cosmetics are both common and necessary so that they will remain safe and perform as intended over the lifetime of the product. Without preservatives the products shelf-life will not be achieved and obviously the active ingredients in your skincare will become inactive, and the product may just turn bad before the time it takes you to finish the product.
Do we need to preserve our homemade lotion ?
Preservatives kills microorganisms and water borne bacteria. They work their way by killing microbe cells and preventing bacteria from spreading. Therefore, preservative is a necessary ingredient for our DIY lotion because of the water content in it. The presence of water makes it possible for waterborne bacteria to contaminate the whole product and since water is typically the first ingredient in hydrating skincare products, a preservative is needed to protect the lotion from bacteria.
We must understand that preservatives are an important part of maintaining the integrity of our skincare products. Preservatives in cosmetics are inevitable because of the delicate nature of skincare formulations and potential health hazards that could arise without them. Accordingly, using skincare products with safe and effective preservatives is highly recommended. You must feel the best about the products you apply onto your skin, hence harmful preservatives like parabens are definitely out of the list.
But if you are making a product without a water-based liquid then you do not have to worry about preservation. Problem only arises when you add water or a water-based ingredient such as plants extracts or hydrosols since this will create a comfy place for mold and bacteria to start growing.
One good tip worth sharing here is that if your creams are packaged in jars, be sure to wash your hands before use. If possible, use a small spatula to extract the product rather than using your fingers. This is just a simple way to ensure your product is always clean, safe and uncontaminated.
Green Herbology – Liquid Germall Plus
At Green Herbology, our Liquid Germall Plus is a highly recommended preservative for preserving all your DIY skincare products without posing any health risks. We want you to feel the best about the products you apply onto your skin, so we advise against harmful preservatives like parabens and recommend safe preservatives that get the job done without posing health risks.
Green Herbology Liquid Germall Plus is a highly powerful liquid preservative to inhibit the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts and molds and can be used in oil-in-water, water-in-oil emulsion systems and water-soluble formulations. It is water soluble, effective even in small amounts, and has a broad effective pH range. Suggested usage rate of 0.1–0.8% before adding them to your DIY lotion when it is 50°C or cooler, otherwise they may degrade.
CAN’T WE PRESERVE THE LOTION WITH ESSENTIAL OILS AND VITAMIN E?
Vitamin E is a versatile and useful ingredient for homemade skincare products. It acts as a natural antioxidant neutralising free radicals while helping to moisturise and soften the skin. Some people like to use essential oils and Vitamin E as natural preservatives. While it is true that these do contain some antibacterial and antifungal properties, they alone are not sufficient to preserve any type of homemade lotion. Do bear in mind that Vitamin E is high in antioxidants and can help to slow down the rancidity in the oils of your lotions but they won’t prevent the formation of bacteria and mold.
When cosmetics are exposed, such is the case with skincare packaged in jars and bottles, damage and ingredient degradation may occur. The idea behind antioxidants as preservatives is that antioxidants protect against oxidation. Unfortunately, antioxidants are more concerned with free radical damage than bacteria formation. Vitamin E, essential oils and other antioxidants are commonly misunderstood as natural preservatives, but this isn’t the truth. Antioxidants in skin care fight against oxidation, but antioxidants will not prevent bacteria from ruining cosmetics. You may keep antioxidants in your skincare routine, but DO NOT rely on them as natural preservatives in your cosmetics.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HOMEMADE BODY LOTION?
Body lotion is beneficial in all seasons and is one of the most inexpensive ways to nourish your skin and keep it subtle. By using body lotion at-least once a day, it enhances the calibre of the skin and does wonders on a scaly, dehydrated skin that otherwise looks dry and unattractive.
You can safely and effectively moisturize your skin using body lotions made with natural plants, like shea and cocoa butter and coconut and jojoba oil. And there are lots of options available, whether you want to buy or make your own. Of course, the main benefit of making your own lotion is that you can control and customise the ingredients and know exactly what is in your product. When you create your own lotion, you will know for sure that your recipe will be nature-inspired and completely cruelty-free!
As your skin is your largest breathing organ, it is imperative to know exactly what you are putting on your skin. Homemade lotions contain beneficial ingredients from natural sources which are all packed with minerals and vitamins which are good for your skin. A homemade body lotion has a greater percentage of water in the formula and is thinner in consistency that helps replenish the skin’s natural lipid layer. Body lotions are not as sticky and are easily spread, readily absorbed, and feels very light on the skin because they have a lower viscosity than body creams. Lotions are reasonably hydrating without feeling heavy and work well for those with oily skin. They are also good for skin that is not excessively dry or when it is preferable not to have a sticky, greasy feeling on the skin. Even those with dry skin may use a lotion during the day and under the sun when the air is hot and humid.
Whether you decided to take matters into your own hands by DIY your own homemade lotion or whether buying off the shelf, there are lots of factors to take into consideration. You must be able to understand your own body and how it will react or respond to the various natural or artificial ingredients is paramount in determining which type of body lotion is best for you. The benefits of homemade lotion may differ from individuals so understanding your skin type and any skin conditions you may have before formulating your lotion is important. Once you understand your body and which oils and vitamins work for you, making your own homemade lotion will be easier and all you have to do is to study what ingredients they contain.
Incorporating the following important ingredients into your DIY moisturizing lotion and how these ingredients will benefit your skin are as follows:-
Emollients – butter/carrier oil to soften and hydrate your skin
Water – hydrosol offering skincare benefits, also good as dissolving agent
Humectants – glycerine to attract water to your skin
Emulsifier – to combine water with oil
Thickener – to increase the viscosity of lotion/cream
Preservative – prevent mold and bacteria growth in lotion.
Antioxidant – Vitamin E can protect against rancidity of oils
Overall, natural products are always recommended and while you may not notice the effects right away but after continued use you will eventually realize that natural products are truly better and gentler on the skin.
WHAT ARE NATURAL EMOLLIENTS? EXAMPLE OF EMOLLIENTS THAT CAN BE USED IN HOMEMADE LOTION?
Emollients are among the conditioning ingredients most commonly used in cosmetics and personal care formulations and they belong to the category of functional ingredients formulators which provide skin suppleness, elasticity and softness.
Emollients are useful for healing dry, itchy, rough and flaky skin. When the skin is lack of water, it tends to crack and flake off, leaving open spaces between the skin cells. Emollients are needed to fill those spaces with fatty substances so that your skin is smoother and softer again. Emollients provide barrier to the skin’s natural moisture loss, prevent or slow down the natural evaporation of water and finally improve the texture of the skin.
Natural emollients are preferred because of their remedial properties, besides, they do not restrict the skin’s respiration in the same way as synthetic emollients as they do not contain residues of toxic metal oxide catalysts or petrochemicals. Remember, emollients work best when you use an adequate amount consistently. If you do this, you will be surprised how quickly your dry skin recovers and becomes soft and smooth again.
Both shea butter and cocoa butter work well as emollients. They naturally derive from plant; shea is extracted from nuts, while cocoa comes from beans. The extraction processes resulted in two different substances with different consistencies and textures with protective and moisturizing properties. Their rich texture intensely nourishes dry body and face and after application, skin becomes softer, more supple and smoother. Both are perfect for soothing dry and sensitive skin too.
Shea butter is lauded for its high concentrations of antioxidants and fatty acids which makes it an ideal cosmetic ingredient for softening skin, soothing skin irritants and also helps to protect skin against free radicals and UV radiation. So, if you’re looking to prevent damage to your skin from sun exposure or environmental irritants, choosing shea butter as a moisturizer is a wise choice. On the other hand, cocoa butter possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to improve blood flow within the dermal layer of the skin and promote overall skin health. Choose cocoa butter if you’re hoping to treat ageing signs such as fine lines or pigmentation.
One of the most common uses of Argan oil is as a moisturizing agent. This versatile oil is suitable for all skin types as it contains Vitamin E, carotenes, antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Its anti-aging characteristics which improve skin elasticity and overall vitality makes it an important oil to incorporate into any skincare products. Argan oil is also a good emollient that softens and smooths the skin by binding skin cells back together. It restores skin lipids and protects against free radicals. Great for rough or flaky skin and it is non-comedogenic as it is not greasy once absorbs.
Because Argan oil is high in oleic acids, it is especially beneficial for dry and aging skin. This oil can penetrate easily into the skin’s surface and replenish the lost moisture that may due to age or environmental factors. Oleic acid makes oils richer and heavier and this is perfect for night creams by helping to seal in and retain moisture.
Argan Oil nourishes and moisturizes the skin with its high content of fatty acids and when applied to the skin, it forms a barrier that prevents moisture from escaping.
The emollients properties of Vitamin E help draw moisture to the skin and also help “seal” moisture into the skin, while making it feel softer, smoother and moisturized. Vitamin E is also a strong antioxidant as it protects skin against damage from pollution and UV and keeping skin looking healthy all the time. Vitamin E oil can also act as a cleanser as it works perfectly well in removing impurities from the skin pores and at the same time cleaning your face. Simultaneously, it maintains skin oil balance and prevents from drying.
The additional benefit of its healing properties is commonly used to treat dry and flaky skin and studies have also proven that Vitamin E has a positive impact on wound healing.
CAN YOU ADD IN ESSENTIAL OILS INTO YOUR BODY LOTION? WHICH ESSENTIAL OILS CAN BE ADDED INTO HOMEMADE BODY LOTION & THEIR FUNCTIONS FOR SKIN CONDITION?
Essential oils are widely incorporated in cosmetic products due to their individual properties which contain a wide range of medicinal and therapeutic values that make them perfect for improving skin and hair health but ensuring the safe use of these oils in skincare products is vital as they contain compounds with varied chemical structure and effects. However, they are considered as safe and non-toxic when used at low concentration and adding some good essential oils to your homemade body lotion is great but the key is to use them properly. It can also be added to your skincare routine by mixing drops of essential oils with a cream or moisturizer. Just a few drops are enough to give your lotion a nice scent and pleasant effects. The type of essential oils you use will depend on the purpose of the lotion too.
Lavender and tea tree oil are good for soothing dry skin. These oils boost potent anti-inflammatory properties together with its therapeutic scent. Especially Tea Tree which is well known and effective at fighting acne and reducing skin itchiness. Lavender oil on the other hand kills acne-causing bacteria that might infiltrate your pores therefore perfect for preventing, calming and healing painful acne breakouts. This calming oil also helps to reduce redness, blotchy patches and acne scarring and is also great for soothing and healing skin that’s irritated or reddened from the sun or insect bites.
If you suffer from dry skin or eczema, adding lavender oil into your lotion will definitely balance your skin’s moisture barrier to alleviate and soothe painful and itchy skin. The antiseptic properties of both lavender and tea tree oil will help injured skin to heal faster, while fighting and preventing further infection.
Lavender oil is a potent source of antioxidants which is making it ideal for battling signs of premature aging. Antioxidants fight free radical damage, which is caused by environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution and supplementing your skin with this is a simple way to help protect against dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles.
If you have sensitive skin, try adding Peppermint and Eucalyptus oil into your lotion. The cooling effect of peppermint oil together with its antiseptic and antibacterial properties naturally soothes skin irritation and inflammation. The menthol in this oil can also decongest skin and reduce redness and irritation. Eucalyptus oil is calming and antimicrobial, and is great at preventing skin infections especially pimples and acne. It has the capability of promoting ceramide production to keep skin moisturized and prevent UVB-induced inflammation and collagen degradation.
The astringent ingredients of Rose Geranium and Lemon essential oils actively tighten skin and stops wrinkles from developing. Rose Geranium oil’s hydrating properties also help the skin become nourished and plump. Both oils have antibacterial and cicatrizant properties which can actively help repair damaged skin.
Lemon oil is the best oil for skin whitening as it contains limonene and citric acid. Lemon essential oil helps brighten and revitalize skin by lightening blemishes, fading acne scars, and balancing the skin’s natural pH. Fatty acids within these essential oils promote healthy skin cells, which will ultimately lead to more youthful and glowing skin.
Frankincense essential oil is a natural healer that can remove wrinkles and hyperpigmentation while increasing elasticity. Thanks to its cytophylactic properties, it is so good at preserving the skin and is highly regarded for cellular regeneration and protect against free radical damage. Apart from hydrating and reducing itchy, flaky and dry skin, it can also nourish and improve appearance of stretch marks, scars and blemishes. Great for all skin types especially mature or aging skin and it preserves the skins natural moisture barrier for soft, glowing skin.
Essential oils are absolutely perfect for skin care, in fact, there is an essential oil for every skin type and every skin issue and adding these beneficial essential oils to your lotion will gain huge levels of protection against wrinkles and promote flawless and glowing skin.
We all know that our skin is our biggest organ and the one that is most exposed to the outside elements, yet it is one most people neglect to care for properly. Do bear in mind that taking care of our skin is a great practice for any age. It’s never too early or too late to start! It’s always easier to practice prevention as a first method of defence.
Found this post written by a sweet lady from the internet and wish to share here :
“When I was in my 30s I began a routine of moisturizing daily, almost without exception, after lightly towel drying from bathing. I applied small amounts and massaged it into my skin from chest to toes. I’m 68 now and my skin thanks me for taking such good care of it!”
GREEN HERBOLOGY GLOWING AND WHITENING ROSE HANDMADE BODY LOTION RECIPE
This simple homemade body lotion will instantly make your skin glows ❗🥰 It is super nourishing, super versatile, super simple and all-natural. This easy homemade lotion is perfect for your entire body and feels exactly like store-bought lotion. The best body lotion for glowing skin you will ever try❗
WHAT DO YOU NEED ❓
🌼 1 empty pump bottle: click to buy ➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/300ml-green-pet-plastic-round-shoulder-bottle-with-black-pump-cap/
🌼 Ethanol alcohol spray➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/ethanol-alcohol-95/
🌼 Rose hydrosol➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/rose-hydrosol/
🌼 Grapeseed oil➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/grape-seed-oil/
🌼 Liquid germall plus (preservative)- Optional➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/liquid-germall-plus/
🌼 Emulsifier France➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/emulsifier-france-lotion-and-cream/
🌼 Vitamin E➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/vitamin-e/
🌼 Frankincense Essential Oil➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/frankincense-essential-oil/
🌼 Rose Geranium Essential Oil➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/rose-geranium-essential-oil/
🌼 Cocoa Butter➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/flash-sales-cocoa-butter-deodorized-50-gram/
🌼 Shea Butter➡️ https://greenherbology.com/product/flash-sales-shea-butter-refined-50-gram/
HOW TO MAKE IT ❓
This recipe requires 2 empty beaker for making water phase & oil phase:
🌼 Firstly, we make water phase.
🌼 Add in 100ml rose hydrosol in beaker.
🌼 Add in 6ml of Emulsifier France
🌼 Mix well until it became thick consistency
🌼 Secondly, we make the oil phase:
🌼 Add in about 5g cocoa butter.
🌼 Add in about 5g shea butter.
🌼 Add in Grapeseed oil of 40ml.
🌼 Melt it using microwave or double boiler.
🌼 Thirdly, combine oil phase into water phase.
🌼 Mix until it is fully combined.
🌼 Add 5 drops of Vitamin E.
🌼 5 drops Frankincense and Rose Geranium essential oil.
🌼 2-3 drops liquid Germall Plus (optional- in the video we did not add this)
🌼 Mix well again. Spray bottle using alcohol.
🌼 Pour in all the lotion into pump bottle.
YEAY !! It is ready to use❗
There you are ………. making your own body lotion is not difficult at all and the method of formulating is super easy. What you will love about this homemade body lotion for glowing skin is that the recipe is easily customizable. This recipe uses ingredients that are already shelf-stable🥰Do get all these ingredients from Green Herbology website, Lazada or Shopee today. You will be amazed that the process of making is not only simple but the final product is super wholesome and hydrating for your skin. You will definitely love it !!!
We have a video clip here to guide you with the process so that you will never go wrong………………