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  • Emulsifier -help

    Posted by Mara on January 31, 2024 at 9:13 am

    Body mist

    Hi guys! I am trying to make an insect repellent body mist using 6% citronella oil 6% lemongrass, distilled water, isopropyl alcohol. I am now starting to read about what emulsifier should i use in order to be able to combine these and not get a sticky feel.

    Any suggestions?

    Thanks!

    Mexamo2002 replied 9 months, 2 weeks ago 4 Members · 5 Replies
  • 5 Replies
  • chemicalmatt

    Member
    February 2, 2024 at 9:42 am

    @Mara use a phospho-ester surfactant, most of which are compatible with IPA and water and will not create too much foam or viscosity. A solvent friendly associative polymer such as Rapidgel EZ1 would be a slam dunk, but will not mist only stream. If you wanted to transition to a gel however that would be the ideal choice. As for the sticky-tacky sensorial issue, nothing will mitigate that, not with 12.0% terpene oils inside. It will be sticky and smelly, just deal with it.

  • Mara

    Member
    February 3, 2024 at 11:11 am

    thank you!! do you have a specific suggestion for the surfactant? Also what do you think about using polysorbate 80 for this one?

  • Paprik

    Member
    February 4, 2024 at 6:24 pm

    It looks like you want to solubilise the lipid? Not really create an emulsion?

    If so, you would need to premix your essential oils in isapropanol and after mix into water.

  • Mara

    Member
    February 5, 2024 at 1:53 am

    Yes, you are right

    I tried to do that but they separate about 10 mins after i mix them with water, do you know how should i deal with this?

  • Mexamo2002

    Member
    February 20, 2024 at 5:48 am

    One commonly used emulsifier in DIY skincare products is Polysorbate 20. It is a gentle and effective emulsifier that can help blend water soccer skills world cup and oil-based ingredients without leaving a sticky feel.

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