Cosmetic gels consist of gelled liquids produced with suitable swelling agents. For the ingredients to work well in the finished product, the mixing process has to be exactly right. We design and supply homogenising mixers for gels in the field of cosmetics.
Hydrogels and oleogels
Gels are single-phase systems. Depending on the base liquid, a distinction is made between two groups:
Hydrogels
They are water-based. Typical examples are hair gels or cooling care gels.
Oleogels
They are oil-based, which makes them well suited to relipidising care products.
Incorporating Carbopol reliably
The polyacrylic acid Carbopol frequently serves as a thickener. It thickens many solvents and even non-polar systems. However, incorporating the powder requires a multi-stage mixing process:
- Powders are conveniently drawn in and directly dispersed
- A low speed during powder addition prevents air entrainment
- Agitator and homogeniser have infinitely variable speed adjustment
- The plant also works efficiently in the lower speed range
- Drawing-in takes place under vacuum control into the circulation flow of the vessel
- Pressure- and vacuum-resistant design, plus GMP-compliant design
Looking for a mixer for Carbopol gels? We will be happy to advise you on new and used plants.
FAQ: Manufacturing cosmetic gels
What is the difference between a hydrogel and an oleogel?
Hydrogels are water-based and are thickened, for example, with carbomer, xanthan or cellulose derivatives. Oleogels are oil-based and are gelled with waxes, silica or polymers.
How is Carbopol incorporated without lumps?
The powder is drawn in slowly at low speed, ideally by vacuum below the liquid level into the homogeniser, fully dispersed and only then neutralised.
How can air bubbles in the gel be avoided?
By working under vacuum, using low speeds during powder addition and deaerating before filling.
Which machine is suitable for cosmetic gels?
Pressure- and vacuum-resistant homogenising mixers with infinitely variable speed, powder induction into the circulation flow and a scraper agitator.
Does SEEFRIED supply plants for gels?
Yes, SEEFRIED Verfahrenstechnik designs gel plants and offers inspected used vacuum homogenising mixers.