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A Secret behind Making a Luxurious Pearlescent Handwash Liquid: Ethylene Glycol Distearate (EGDS)

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Last week, in the laboratory of Yeser Chemicals’ UAE branch, our chemist team made a great demo of a Luxurious Pearlescent Handwash Liquid formula. We also posted a detailed video on YouTube demonstrating the detailed process.

In the video, our chemist Grace explained all the ingredients used and the procedures meticulously to make this Luxurious Pearlescent Handwash Liquid with Moisturizing properties.

Formula and Procedure for Making the Pearlescent Handwash

The Formulation Chart

PhaseIngredientsRoleWt percentage, %Weight(g) per Batch (600ml)
A Water Solvent84.05505.8 
EDTA-2NaChelating agent0.100.6
GlycerineMoisturizer1.509.0
B SLES 70%Primary surfactant7.0042.0
CDEACo-surfactant1.006.0
CAB 35%Co-surfactant for foam boosting and mildness 2.0012.0
CMEACo-surfactant1.006.0
EGDSPearlescent effect1.509.0
C Citric AcidpH- adjuster q.s. to achieve desired pH(5-6)q.s. to achieve desired pH(5-6)
D DMDMHPreservative0.201.2
FragranceAroma0.200.6/batch
E SaltThickening agent1.509
Physical and chemical indicators: pH value (10%Aqueous solution,5.0-6.0,25℃): result = 5.42

Procedures

Creating a luxurious handwash with a pearlescent effect involves careful preparation and precise handling of ingredients. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve a lustrous handwash formulation.

Phase A: Surfactant Mixture Preparation

  1. Prepare the Beaker:
    • Take a clean beaker suitable for heating.
  2. Add Surfactants:
  3. Heat the Mixture:
    • Place the beaker in a water bath set to 75°C.
    • Continuously stir the mixture to ensure all surfactants melt and blend uniformly.
  4. Cool the Mixture:
    • Once the surfactants have melted and formed a homogeneous mixture, remove the beaker from the water bath.
    • Allow the mixture to cool slightly before proceeding to the next phase.

Phase B: Aqueous Solution Preparation

  1. Prepare the Aqueous Phase:
  2. Mix Thoroughly:
    • Mix the aqueous solution well to ensure all components are fully dissolved.

Combining Phase

  1. Homogenize the Mixture:
    • Combine the cooled surfactant mixture (Phase A) with the aqueous solution (Phase B).
    • Use an overhead mixer to ensure thorough mixing and homogenization.

pH Adjustment

Measure the pH of the formulation. If the pH is not within the desired range of 5.0-6.0, adjust it by adding small amounts of citric acid.

Final Additions:

  1. After pH adjustment, add DMDMH (Dimethylol Dimethyl Hydantoin) preservative to the mixture.
  2. Add Sodium Chloride (NaCl) to achieve the desired thickness. Mix carefully to avoid over-thickening.

Final Touches

  1. Divide the Formulation:
    • Divide the formulation into three equal parts.
  2. Add Fragrance and Color:
    • Add different fragrances and colors to each part to create variety.
    • Mix each part thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution of fragrance and color.
  3. Bottling:
    • Transfer each colored and fragranced formulation into handwash bottles.

Observation

You will notice a lustrous texture in the handwash, thanks to the inclusion of EGDS. This pearlescent effect enhances the visual appeal, making the handwash look luxurious and attractive.

image

Ethylene Glycol Distearate: the spotlight ingredient

What is EGDS?

Ethylene Glycol Distearate, or EGDS for short, is the crucial ingredient in pearlescent-looking personal care products and cosmetics. EGDS dissolves and emulsifies upon heating(65℃~ 75℃) in the surfactant complex and precipitates out lens-like crystals during cooling, thus producing a pearlescent luster. It plays a 3-in-1 role in the formula, i.e., Surfactant, Opacifier, and Pearlizing agent.

Yeser® EGDS is gentle on the skin with low irritation. It features superior opacifying performance and a bright white appearance, making the final product more substantial and demonstrating a soft, velvety feel. It also can easily dissolve in water and is highly compatible with many other surfactants.

Ethylene Glycol Distearate

Role of EGDS in formulations

 Pearlescent Agent:

  • Function: EGDS is primarily used to impart a pearlescent or shimmering appearance to liquid formulations.
  • Benefit: This visual appeal enhances the attractiveness of the product, making it more appealing to consumers. The pearlescent effect can give the product a luxurious and high-quality look.

Thickening Agent:

  • Function: EGDS can act as a thickening agent, helping to increase the viscosity of the formulation.
  • Benefit: Improved viscosity can enhance the user experience by providing a richer and more luxurious feel during application. It also ensures that the product dispenses properly from the container and spreads evenly on the skin.

Emollient:

  • Function: As an emollient, EGDS helps to soften and smooth the skin.
  • Benefit: This can improve the skin’s texture and feel, leaving it feeling moisturized and conditioned after use. It’s particularly beneficial in handwash formulations where repeated washing can lead to dry skin.

Stabilizing Agent:

  • Function: EGDS can help stabilize emulsions, ensuring that the formulation remains homogenous and stable over time.
  • Benefit: Stability is crucial for maintaining the efficacy and appearance of the product throughout its shelf life. It prevents separation and ensures consistent performance with each use.

EGDS’ Versatility in Formulations:

EGDS can be used in a variety of personal care products beyond handwashes, including shampoos, shower gels, and creams, making it a versatile ingredient for formulators.

The General Safety and Regulatory Status

Ethylene Glycol Distearate (EGDS) is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and detergent formulations. It is non-toxic and non-irritating at typical use concentrations.

Although the skin sensitivity is rare with the use of EGDS but the patch testing is a must to be done in our laboratory to avoid some mild allergic reactions.

EGDS is permitted for use in cosmetic products by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is listed in the FDA’s Voluntary Cosmetic Registration Program (VCRP). In the European Union, EGDS is approved for use in cosmetic and personal care products under the Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. It is also listed in the CosIng database, which provides information on cosmetic substances and ingredients.

An Optimum Usage or Dosage of EDGS

  • EGDS should be melted and incorporated into the formulation at a temperature above its melting point (65°C to 75°C) to ensure proper dispersion.
  • EGDS is typically added to the oil phase or the surfactant phase of an emulsion. It can also be added to the aqueous phase if pre-dispersed.
  • After addition, the formulation should be cooled with continuous stirring to ensure uniform distribution and to achieve the desired pearlescent effect.

Common Dosing Amounts

EGDS is typically used at concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 5% in personal care products and cosmetics depending on the desired effect (e.g., pearlescence, thickening).

Yeser Chemicals’ Expertise and Product Range

Yeser Chemicals, backed by years of innovation in the field of sustainable surfactant technology, particularly coconut-based surfactants, stands at the forefront of the home and personal care chemical industry. With an extensive catalog of high-quality ingredients, Yeser Chemicals doesn’t just supply chemicals; it provides comprehensive solutions that address the entirety of product development—from concept to consumer.

Comprehensive Product Offerings:

  • Home Care Products: Our portfolio includes essential ingredients for a wide array of home care products, such as surface cleaners, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners. We prioritize the use of sustainable materials to ensure that our products not only perform exceptionally but also contribute to a greener planet.
  • Personal Care Products: We supply a versatile range of components necessary for the creation of high-end personal care products like shampoos, conditioners, and luxurious hand washes. Our products are designed to meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and sensory pleasure, ensuring a superior end-user experience.

Enhancing Customer Engagement Through Expert Services

At Yeser Chemicals, we extend our expertise beyond just product offerings. We are dedicated to fostering long-term partnerships with our clients by supporting them throughout the product development lifecycle. Whether you are looking to develop a new formula or improve an existing one, our team of experts is equipped to bring your vision to fruition with precision and innovation.

Services Designed to Elevate Your Product Line:

  • Custom Formulation Development: We work closely with our clients to develop unique formulations that meet specific market needs and consumer preferences. Our state-of-the-art laboratory and experienced chemists ensure that every new formula not only adheres to the highest standards of quality but also aligns perfectly with your brand identity.
  • Formulation Optimization: For businesses looking to enhance or expand their existing product lines, our team provides deep insights into ingredient synergies, cost-efficiency, and performance improvement. We help you refine your formulations to achieve better results and higher consumer satisfaction.
  • Problem-Solving and Technical Support: Yeser Chemicals prides itself on its proactive customer service. We offer support for any issues that may arise during the formulation or production phases, including troubleshooting, quality control, and regulatory compliance advice.

Engage with Yeser Chemicals’ Expert Team

We encourage all potential and current clients to reach out with their ideas, challenges, or questions. Engaging with Yeser Chemicals means tapping into a wealth of knowledge and experience in the chemical production industry, ensuring that your products stand out in the market. Contact us today to discover how we can help transform your concepts into reality, enhance your product offerings, and achieve excellence in every aspect of production.

By fostering an environment of collaboration and support, Yeser Chemicals aims to be more than just a supplier; we strive to be a valuable partner in your business’s growth and success.

Written by:
Picture of Jun Xie
Jun Xie
Jun is the head of R&D at Yeser Chemicals. He holds a master's degree in Chemical Engineering and Technology. After joining Yeser Chemicals in 2013, he has been dedicated to researching and developing new coconut-based green surfactants and their safe uses in Home & Personal care products. In addition to serving as the Head of R&D at Yeser Chemicals, Jun is the director of the Guangdong Green Surfactant Engineering Technology Research Center and a member of the Standard Committee of Guangdong Daily Chemical Chamber of Commerce.

Yeser Chemicals is a leading producer of CAPB, CDEA, CMEA, EGDS, and other various Coconut-derived surfactants.

By self-manufacturing and 3rd-party toll-manufacturing, we provide a long list of safe ingredients, including surfactants, conditioners, thickeners, etc.,  used in Home & Fabric Care, Personal Care, and Cosmetics.

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