Polymers
Polymers are long-chain molecules, an essential part of many formulas, playing different roles such as pH adjustment, viscosity control, sensory profile, etc. Some natural polymers can form a protective network covering the skin, guarding against UV exposure, pollution, and transdermal water loss. Others have mechanical lifting properties, allowing instantly lift and firm the skin's surface and exposing exceptional results.
Depending on requirements, polymers can also thicken, stabilize, emulsify, and texturize formulations, so those functional ingredients found their unique niche in the cosmetic industry.
Ceteth-20 is structurally ethoxylated Cetearyl alcohol (C16; 1-Hexadecanol) with 20 ethylene oxide units (PEG-20). It is a high-active primary emulsifier.
Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride is a naturally derived cationic polymer that is commonly used as a conditioning agent in shampoos, cream rinse conditioners, shower gels, body washes, and skin cleanser formulas.
PEG-100 Stearate is a product of poly-ethoxylation of stearic acid (18-carbon backbone fatty acid) that contains 100 moles of ethylene oxide (polymer part). The raw materials have mixed origins petrochemical and botanical.
PEG-8 is a polyethylene glycol with polymerization level 8 which means that it contains 8 -CH2CH2O-
Polyquaternium-22 is a highly charged cationic co-polymer that is capable of demonstrating both anionic and cationic characteristics. This co-polymer demonstrates excellent pH stability and is ideal for use as a conditioning polymer in hair and skin care applications.
Polyquaternium-7 is a highly charged cationic co-polymer ideal for use in hair and skin care applications. This copolymer is highly water soluble, compatible with anionic systems, and provides clarity in the formulation.