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Can the HLB system or anything else suggest how much emulsifier to use?
As far as I know, the HLB system only suggests which emulsifiers or blends to use to match the oil phase composition.
How can you get a rough guidance on how much emulsifier/blend to use, besides trial and error experimentation?
The only thing I found was this:
Now, make seven test emulsions, using one of the above emulsifier samples in each. Use an excess of emulsifier (say 10-20% of the weight of your oil phase), and dissolve or intimately disperse the emulsifier into the oil phase, melting ingredients together if necessary.
http://www.firp.ula.ve/archivos/historicos/76_Book_HLB_ICI.pdfSo 110-120% of the oil phase weight is a good start?
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3 Replies
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Hi @Gunther, I read this article a long time ago when just started formulating: https://makingskincare.com/how-to-formulate-like-a-pro/
“approximately 25% of the total of the oil-soluble ingredients, subject to a minimum of 3% and a maximum of 7%”
this approach never failed me in o/w emulsion. I wish it was as simple with w/o. -
Check manufacturers’ suggestions of how much of a given emulsifier is recommended. Often they will give a range with specifications depending on the type of product you’re making.
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in a word, no; you have to find out what level is best for your desired application by experiment or past experience
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