
Dermaceuticals: Elevating Skin Care with Clinical-Grade Emulsifiers
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.
Mentioned in this article
Pharcos A 165
A self-emulsifying, acid-stable base for forming oil-in-water emulsions.
Pharcos HCO 40
The gold standard solubilizer for essential oils and lipophilic actives.
Pharcos C 25
Gelling agent and emulsifier supplied in flake/powder form for high-viscosity applications.
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