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Oil / Beeswax balm cracking on top surface.
Just wondering if anyone knows why this happens or what can prevent it? I went down to a low 5% beeswax ratio and it still shows some cracks / crystallization on surface when you disturb it.
Soy 45%
avocado 20%
palm 30%
beeswax 5%
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5 Replies
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Hi Symbiosis,
I think it might happen because the top surface cools down quicker than other parts of your balm.
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Hi Symbiosis,
I would like to recommend you to lower your filling temperature, try to hit the limit.
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From my experience, it’s all to do with temperature. My approach was to set up an Excel spreadsheet and record data on various temperature parameters.
Also, look at the lid on/off after the balm is poured, the temperature, and type of the surface the filled balm containers are resting on as they are poured.
There is no quick answer/advice as we are unaware of the conditions you are working in.
You will need to experiment, but with the Excel data you should be able to solve the problem….we did.
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The issue you’re experiencing with cracking or crystallization might be related to the cooling process after your product is melted and combined, or it could be an issue with the formulation of the ingredients themselves.
Here are some suggestions to prevent cracks and crystallization:
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Cooling Process: After melting and combining your ingredients, the rate at which they cool can affect the final texture of your product. Rapid cooling can sometimes cause a product to crack or become grainy. To prevent this, try allowing your product to cool slowly at room temperature.
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Beeswax and other ingredients: The issue might be related to the composition of the beeswax you’re using. Not all beeswax is created equal, and impurities in the wax could potentially be causing issues. You could try sourcing your beeswax from a different supplier or use refined beeswax to see if it makes a difference.
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Shea Butter or Cocoa Butter: Adding a butter like shea or cocoa could potentially help improve the texture of your product and prevent cracking. Butters are often used in balms and salves to give them a smooth, creamy texture.
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Experiment with ratios: If none of the above solutions work, you might need to experiment with the ratios of your ingredients. Beeswax can sometimes cause a product to become hard and crack, particularly if it’s used in high amounts. Try reducing the amount of beeswax in your formulation to see if it helps.
Remember, creating the perfect formulation often requires a lot of trial and error. It might take several iterations before you find the perfect blend of ingredients for your product.
Finally, make sure you are storing your product in a cool, dry place, as heat and moisture can affect its texture and stability.
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All great replies, thank you.
I will try a low temp pour and slow cooling to see if that helps.
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