Dermaceuticals: Elevating Skin Care with Clinical-Grade Emulsifiers

Dermaceuticals: Elevating Skin Care with Clinical-Grade Emulsifiers

December 2, 2025

The Indian consumer is becoming increasingly savvy, looking for 'medical-grade' results from their daily skincare routines. This has pushed the industry toward 'Dermaceuticals'—products that require the stability of a pharmaceutical cream with the sensory appeal of high-end cosmetics.

Self-Emulsifying Bases for Acid Stability

Modern treatments often involve acidic actives like AHAs and BHAs. Traditional emulsifiers often fail in these low-pH environments. Pharcos A 165 (Glyceryl Stearate & PEG-100 Stearate) is a self-emulsifying, acid-stable base specifically designed for this purpose. It forms highly stable oil-in-water emulsions across a wide pH range, providing a distinct white, glossy appearance that consumers associate with premium clinical products.

Solubilization without Irritation

Fragrances and essential oils are notoriously difficult to incorporate into water-based serums without causing cloudiness. Pharcos HCO 40 (PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil) is considered the gold standard for this application. Unlike standard castor oil ethoxylates, the hydrogenated version has low odor and excellent oxidation stability, ensuring that the final product remains clear and shelf-stable without irritating sensitive skin.

Texture and Gelling Mastery

To achieve the high-viscosity 'ringing gels' popular in modern hair waxes and thick creams, formulators turn to Pharcos C 25 (Ceteareth-25). Supplied in flakes, it provides superior gelling properties compared to lower mole ethoxylates, acting as a binder and solubilizer that adds structure to both cosmetic and detergent products.

Filed Under

DermaceuticalsFormulation TrendsSkin Care