Emulsifiers are ingredients used in cosmetics to help mix substances that usually don't blend well like oils and water. Emulsifiers work by reducing the tension between liquids that don't dissolve in each other. They allow the liquids to mix together and stay mixed, rather than separate.There are 2 types of emulsifiers. Oil-in-water (o/w) emulsifiers keep oil drops packed in water, while water-in-oil (w/o) emulsifiers keep water drops packed in oil. W/O emulsifiers are used for a fatty feel (e.g night & sun protection creams). O/W emulsifiers are used more in moisturizing products (e.g. body lotions, day creams). O/W is the most common type of emulsions.

Emulsifiers enable seamless blending of oil and water phases into stable, luxurious products. Choosing the right emulsifier is crucial. It not only impacts texture and viscosity but also overall product performance.

The selection process requires considering factors like:

  •  Ionic nature, chemical composition, and emulsion type

  •  Hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB)

  •  Origin and physical form

From natural to synthetic options, emulsifiers are available in a wide range. Formulators must test their properties to craft the perfect emulsified cosmetic formulations.