Pentylene Glycol: The Natural Multifunctional Preservative
Pentylene glycol in skincare is a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient used for moisturizing, humectant, penetration enhancing and antimicrobial properties. This makes it a really useful ingredient in natural formulations and one that is worth getting to know. Why...
Which Natural Preservatives are Most Effective For Skincare Formulations? You Asked, We Answered!
Preservatives are essential to protect natural skincare and haircare products from microbial growth, but it can be difficult to ascertain which natural preservatives are the best choice and which you should use in your products. We are often asked by students, “Which...
How to Formulate Natural Water-in-Oil (W/O) Emulsions
If you’ve mastered making creams and lotions, it’s time to learn to formulate and make water-in-oil emulsions! This rich, deeply moisturizing and iconic emulsion type will take your skincare formulation skills to the next level. In this article, we’ll explore: What...
Using Dip Slides for Preliminary Cosmetic Preservative Testing
You’ve formulated your natural skincare products and you need to have them professionally tested to see how well it is preserved against microbial growth. But professional cosmetic testing, known as Preservative Efficacy Testing (PET), or challenge testing, can be...
Formulating with Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) in Natural Skincare
Excitingly, there is a cutting-edge ingredient on the skincare market that’s causing quite a stir. You may have heard the buzzwords ‘polyhydroxy acids’ or ‘PHAs’. PHAs are chemical exfoliants that are much more gentler than AHAs or BHAs, are very hydrating and are...
How to Make Your Own Natural Emulsion-based Clay Face Masks
Take your face mask formulation skills to the next level by formulating creamy, smooth face masks that are ready to apply. These are what we call emulsion-based clay face masks; they have a similar base formula to a cream with all the added benefits of clay. These are...
How to Test the Stability of Your Natural Cosmetic Products at Home
When developing a new cosmetic product or modifying an existing one, every formulator will eventually encounter the question: Will my product remain stable over time? Stability testing is essential in giving you the confidence your products are safe and stable – and...
Homemade Natural Cleaning Products for Your Home
Homemade natural cleaning products are used by billions of people worldwide to keep our homes clean and free from dust, dirt, odors, stains and bacteria. Effective homemade cleaning products include kitchen, bathroom and surface cleaners, laundry detergents and...
An Effective Natural Alternative to Retinol? Say Hello to Phyto-Retinol!
Makeup creators have been searching for an alternative to retinol to use in natural anti-aging skincare products, and they’ve found one! It’s called phyto-retinol, and it is a 100% natural retinol substitute. In this article, we delve into the similarities and...
The 5 Best Natural Hand and Nail Treatments
The market is filled with natural remedies for dry hands, natural nail care ranges and homemade hand creams. Hand washes, hand serums, hand lotions, hand treatments, hand balms, and nail and cuticle oils all aim to care for your hands and nails by cleansing them (with...