Creams are among the most frequently used cosmetic products. They can be end products or base substances for further processing and, as multi-phase preparations, contain both aqueous and lipophilic phases.
Hydrophobic and hydrophilic creams
During manufacture, all ingredients are turned into emulsions that, depending on the recipe, are hydrophobic or hydrophilic:
Hydrophobic
Greasy, water-repellent and not washable. They are made from substances of different viscosities such as water, oil and wax.
Hydrophilic
Washable, easy to spread and quickly absorbed. They require very fine emulsions so that the active ingredients can develop their properties to the full.
Requirements for homogenising mixers
For cosmetics manufacturing, homogenising mixers should have certain properties. A small particle size and optimum particle distribution are particularly important so that all ingredients can develop their full effect.
- Pressure- and vacuum-resistant design for stable, narrowly distributed emulsions
- Scraper system independent of the direction of rotation for radial and vertical mixing of highly viscous products
- Intensive homogenising with adjustable shear energy
- Aseptic, GMP-compliant design with integrated cleaning-in-place (CIP)
- Compliance with all common standards – also with a view to future developments
This results in permanently stable creams with optimum particle distribution.
FAQ: Manufacturing cosmetic creams
How are creams manufactured industrially?
The water and fat phases are heated separately, combined in the vacuum homogenising mixer and emulsified, then cooled while stirring. Temperature-sensitive active ingredients and fragrances are added in the cooling phase.
What is the difference between W/O and O/W creams?
In O/W creams, oil droplets are dispersed in water: they are quickly absorbed and washable. W/O creams contain water droplets in a fat phase and are more greasy and protective.
Why is droplet size so important?
Fine, narrow droplet distributions make creams stable, improve skin feel and appearance, and prevent creaming or breaking of the emulsion.
Which machine is suitable for creams?
Vacuum homogenising mixers with a scraper agitator independent of the direction of rotation, a controllable homogeniser, heating/cooling jacket and CIP.
Does SEEFRIED offer plants for creams?
Yes, SEEFRIED Verfahrenstechnik designs cream plants and supplies inspected used homogenising mixers, e.g. from Becomix.