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Seven Basic Systems for Cosmetic Formula Design

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Cosmetic formulation design is a crucial aspect of cosmetic product development. There are seven basic systems that play an indispensable role in creating effective and safe cosmetic formulas, including emulsification system, efficacy system, thickening system, antioxidant system, preservative system, sensory modification system and safety assurance system. Each system contributes to the overall quality, efficacy, and safety of cosmetic products.

Emulsification System

The emulsification system is a cornerstone in cosmetic formulation, particularly for emulsion-based products like lotions and creams. It involves the creation of stable emulsions, ensuring the proper blending of oil and water phases. Various emulsifiers, such as surfactants and particles, are used in formulating cosmetic emulsions. The careful selection of emulsifiers and the optimization of emulsification processes are critical to achieving desirable texture, appearance, and stability in cosmetic products.

Emulsions used in cosmetics are mainly two basic types: W/O (water in oil) and O/W (oil in water). The two different types will bring different sensory characteristics to the skin.

  • O/W emulsions have better spreadability, will not feel greasy when used, and have a refreshing feeling, but the cleaning effect and emollient effect are not as good as W/O emulsions.
  • W/O emulsions have a smooth appearance, efficient cleaning effect and excellent lubrication, but they feel greasy and even sticky.

Reference Guide to HLB Values of Common Emulsifiers

How to choose emulsifier according to HLB system?

Emulsifiers from Alfa Chemistry

Efficacy System

The efficacy system focuses on ensuring that cosmetic products deliver the intended benefits to the skin or hair. It involves the selection of active ingredients, their concentration, and compatibility with other components in the formulation. Common cosmetic efficacy types include:

  • Moisturizing effect
  • Whitening effect
  • Anti-aging effect
  • Anti-allergic effect
  • Anti-acne effect
  • Sunscreen effect
  • Hair dyeing effect

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Thickening System

The thickening system is responsible for controlling the viscosity and texture of cosmetic formulations. Various thickening agents, such as natural polymers, synthetic polymers, and rheology modifiers, are used to adjust the consistency of products like gels, serums, and shampoos. The choice of thickening agents significantly impacts the sensory attributes and application experience of cosmetic products.

Rheology Modifiers from Alfa Chemistry

Antioxidant System

The role of the antioxidant additive component system in the formula system is to prevent the oxidation and deterioration of cosmetics and ensure product quality. We call this component system an antioxidant system. The presence of an antioxidant system can effectively prevent the oxidation of unsaturated oils (oils containing unsaturated fatty acids) in cosmetics.

Water-soluble antioxidants

Sodium sulfiteSodium acetone metabisulfiteThioglycerol
Sodium bisulfiteSodium formaldehyde sulfoxylateThiosorbitol
Sodium metabisulfiteAscorbic acidThioacetic acid
Sodium thiosulfateIsoascorbic acidCysteine

Oil-soluble antioxidants

Ascorbyl palmitateN-dihydroguaiac acidα-Tocopherol
Hydroquinone2,6-di-tert-butyl-p-cresol (BHT)Phenyl-α-naphthyl
Propyl gallateButyl hydrogen anisole (BHA)Lecithin

Antioxidants from Alfa Chemistry

Preservative System

Cosmetics that are affected by microorganisms will deteriorate, mold and spoil. Adding preservatives can prevent the growth of microorganisms in the product or the growth of microorganisms that react with the product. The preservative system is essential for ensuring the microbiological stability and safety of cosmetic products.

Preservative Efficacy Test for Cosmetics

Preservatives from Alfa Chemistry

Sensory Modification System

The sensory modification system focuses on enhancing the overall sensory experience of using cosmetic products. This involves the careful selection of fragrances, texture modifiers, and other sensory enhancers to create appealing scents, textures, and application sensations.

Essence & Fragrance from Alfa Chemistry

Safety Assurance System

Safety assurance systems are integrated into every stage of cosmetic formulation design. This system ensures compliance with regulatory standards, rigorous safety testing, and stringent evaluation of raw materials and finished products. It encompasses comprehensive assessments of potential skin irritation, allergic reactions, and long-term safety.

Quickly Get Cosmetic Testing

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As people's awareness of pursuing naturalness, greenness, health and safety increases, natural beauty cosmetics based on plant active ingredients are becoming more and more popular among consumers. However, it is worth mentioning that sometimes natural ingredients are not necessarily safer than synthetic ingredients.

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