Natural Emulsifiers

Emulsifiers modify the interface between water and oils, allowing tiny blobs of oils and waxes (micelles) to float freely in water (or vice versa) without merging together and separating out. There are few effective natural emulsifiers, which makes avoiding synthetics one of the largest hurdles for natural cosmetic products manufacturers.

Oil and water blended together as one substance, such as a cream or lotion, by use of an emulsifier. When oil is dispersed in water, the emulsion is called an oil-in-water emulsion, abbreviated as o/w. The oily phase of such emulsions can include oils, fats, and waxs. Oil-in-water emulsions provide a number of benefits: they can act as emollients imparting a pleasant skin feel by filling in the crevices between dead cells; or soften and improve the skin's moisture retention properties by leaving a water repellant film. Emulsions are the most common delivery system used in cosmetic products because they enable quick convenient delivery of a wide variety of ingredients.

lecithin - a natural emulsifier that helps oils and waters to float freely without merging or separating out. A antioxidant, and spreading agent. It is a hydrophilic ingredient that attracts water and acts as a moisturizer. Obtained from eggs and soybeans. Used in eye creams, lipsticks, liquid powders, hand creams and lotions, soaps, and many other cosmetics.