Home Cosmetic Science Talk Formulating Hair TEA alternative

  • TEA alternative

    Posted by GARIFUNA on June 20, 2018 at 4:23 pm

    I want to make a hair gel using carbomer. I know that TEA is usually used to create gel but there is a consumer fear now of TEA. I saw something about using sodium lactate on another thread.Is it a good option? Thanks

    Chemist77 replied 6 years, 7 months ago 5 Members · 5 Replies
  • 5 Replies
  • EVchem

    Member
    June 20, 2018 at 4:40 pm

    The carbomer thickens with the addition of base so in theory you can use anythings with  high pH right. I’ve used sodium hydroxide before, not sure if that’s a preferred method but it certainly works. Sodium lactate is a weaker base than TEA so you might have to use quite a bit more to get to your desired thickness

  • Bill_Toge

    Member
    June 21, 2018 at 7:02 pm

    also carbomer gels become thinner as electrolyte concentration increases

  • OldPerry

    Member
    June 21, 2018 at 10:48 pm

    I’ve used AMP before (Aminomethyl Propanol)

  • GARIFUNA

    Member
    June 22, 2018 at 12:38 am

    Thank you all for the suggestions!

  • Chemist77

    Member
    June 22, 2018 at 5:08 am

    I second @Perry, one of the best neutralising agents I have come across. The clarity is unmatchable and there is no yellowing of the product on standing. Have seen transparent gels going yellowish with sodium hydroxide and TEA over a period of time. 

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