Products can be either an oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsion consisting of emollients
and lubricants dispersed in an oil phase, and a water phase containing emulsifying and
thickening agents, perfume, color and preservatives. Active ingredients are dispersed in
either phase depending on the raw materials and the desired properties of the end
product. A typical manufacturing process would be as follows:
• Flake/powder ingredients, such as cetyl alcohol and stearic acid, sometimes dry
blended in advance, are dispersed into the oil phase. Heating may be required to melt
some of the ingredients.
• Active ingredients are dispersed in the appropriate phase.
• The water phase, containing emulsifiers and stabilizers such as Veegum® or
Carbopol®*, is prepared separately.
• The two phases are then mixed to form an emulsion.This is aided by heating to
between 110-185˚F (45-85˚C) depending on the formulation and viscosity.
• Mixing is continued until the end product is homogeneous.