Plasticizers Explained
Plasticizers are versatile ingredients that enhance formulation consistency, stability, and texture, especially in high wax content formulas. They can resolve issues like graininess from internal migration, prevent “seeding” in butter-rich formulas, and improve thermal stability without affecting texture.
Plasticizers also reduce stabiltiy issues, offer better batch control from scale-up to production, support liquid-to-wax ratios, and ensure compatibility in complex systems
Suppress Crystallization
Fixes Graininess
Creates Creamy Textures
Supports Color Distribution
Support Thermal Stability
Stops Bloom & Syneresis
Plasticizers provide solutions for complex formulation challenges and are valuable development tools for improving a wide range of systems.
Kester Wax K-60P
Wax# 484B
INCI: Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Typical Usage Level: 1-15%
Melt Point Range: 50.0 °C – 70.0 °C
PROS:
- Suppresses Crystallization
- Improves Cushion
- Adds Creamy Texture
- Reduces Slip
- May Add Thickening
- Boosts Emulsion Feel & Gloss
- Natural Product
CONS:
- 5%> Emulsions Can Increase Tack
- Higher Usage Required
- Not Globally Compliant
- Compatibility Challenges
Kester Wax K-82P
Wax#154S
INCI: C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate (or) Synthetic Beeswax
Typical Usage Level: 1-15%
Melt Point Range: 70 °C – 85.0 °C
PROS:
- Strong Crystallization Suppression
- Increases Melt Point
- Aids Thermal Stability
- Zero Structure
- Supports Color & SPF Distribution
- Globally Compliant
- Low Usage Level
CONS:
- 50% Synthetic
- Petrochemical Derived
NEW Kester K-70P, a natural polymer derived from Rice Wax, fills the critical gap for chemists, delivering optimal performance when Kester K-60P or Kester K-82P may not meet specific formulation parameters.
Kester Wax K-70P
Wax# 10092
INCI: C18-38 Alkyl Hydroxystearoyl Stearate (natural)
Melt Point Range: 65 °C – 75.0 °C (est)
PROS:
- Suppresses Crystallization
- Increases Melt Point
- Aids in Thermal Stability
- Better Color Distribution
- Natural & Globally Compliant
