Category Archives: Uncategorized

When I first began my journey as a Formulations Chemist, there were so many things to learn. What differentiates the various kinds of cleansers. How do you make balms and pomades. What can you do to build viscosity. What is the difference between a lotion and a cream? That last one eluded me for aContinue reading “Lotion or Cream?”

This post is going to be different, though just as important, if not more so than your knowledge of the chemistry of personal care. We all know the saying, it’s not what you know, it’s who you know. While both are critical to any personal and professional endeavor, it’s our connections that bring it allContinue reading “Connections”

The name is reminiscent of apothecary from the middle ages. In today’s world, it has stuck. What is a serum? Succinctly phrased, it’s a liquid matrix (usually aqueous) that delivers actives to layers of the skin. Serums are some of the simpler products to formulate in this field, though their complexity can range from simpleContinue reading “Serums”

Nature’s moisturizers. Oils coat our skin, scalp, hair, and sometimes our shirts when eating a delicious thigh from Popeye’s. Oils in the personal care/cosmetics industry are usually from fruit and vegetable sources as animal source oils have fallen out of use. Given their nature, oils have a Fatty Acid composition (carboxylic acid with a longContinue reading “Oils”

Short for surface-active agent. Surfactants make the modern world a clean, healthy place in which to live. Humans certainly weren’t using them on a regular basis for much of recorded history. Nowadays, they’re key chemicals in cosmetics, industrial cleaning, oil & gas, and food. I enjoy talking about surfactants for a few reasons; principal amongContinue reading “Surfactants”

Who like Mayonnaise? If this were a presentation, most in the audience would’ve raised their hand. But seriously, who doesn’t like Mayonnaise. It goes great on burgers, hot dogs, macaroni salads, and if you believe the Dutch, with french fries (still have doubts about this one). What makes Mayo possible? They’re called emulsifiers. Now thatContinue reading “Ties that Bind: Emulsifiers”

Head & Shoulders. Dove Body Wash. Harry’s 2-in-1. When we think of shampoos, there are several images that come to mind. What exactly is a shampoo, and what’s the science behind it’s applicability and cleansing properties? The science is simple, yet astounding. In a previous post, I covered the basics of what goes into aContinue reading “What Makes a Cleanser?”

As developed societies move toward sustainability, so do the major industries that contribute to the day-to-day. The Health & Beauty industry is a leading entity in that drive for the greater good. Modern consumers are more conscious driven than previous generations. Information about climate change, ecosystem destruction, hormone disruptors in water sources is easily researched.Continue reading “Green Care: A Trend Here to Stay”

Formulating and making Personal Care/Cosmetics is easier than you think. Although some knowledge of Chemistry is extremely helpful, a scientific mindset is more useful. Keep reading to find out how to make your own cosmetics. How many times have you read the ingredients list on the back of a cream or shampoo, wondering how toContinue reading “What to Know About Making Personal Care Products”

Every professional has their tool kit. Doctors have their medical device bags, Mechanics have their wrenches and power tools, Chefs have their knives and cutting boards. Formulators are no different. To be a successful and proficient Formulator, whether in the industry or in your home, you need the proper tools. Without them, adequate batching willContinue reading “The Tools of the Craft”