Plant-Based Emulsifier Suited for Small-Batch Skincare Trials
SIMULGREEN 18-2 is a self-emulsifying system of vegetable origin designed to create stable oil-in-water emulsions that resist phase separation. This ingredient belongs to the category of Emulsifiers, which brings together substances responsible for binding the water and oil phases of a formula into one uniform texture. The 10 gram pack size is aimed primarily at home formulators, hobbyists, and anyone testing a recipe before scaling up to a larger production run.
The main application of this emulsifier is in creams, lotions, balms, emulsion serums, and body milks, especially within the natural and organic cosmetics niche where synthetic surfactants are avoided while a rich, creamy texture is still required. Thanks to its plant-derived fatty alcohols and sugar esters, it forms a soft, non-greasy film on skin and helps retain moisture in the finished product. Beyond skincare, similar natural emulsifying systems occasionally find use in household cream formulations and gel-like textures where compatibility with vegetable oils and waxes matters.
Emulsification typically occurs around 70-75 degrees Celsius, and the ingredient can be introduced into either the oil or water phase depending on the formula, with the two phases then combined under continuous stirring. Recommended usage levels range from 3 to 6 percent of the total formula weight, adjusted based on the desired thickness and oil content. SIMULGREEN 18-2 pairs well with vegetable oils and natural waxes, including Rose wax Extra, which adds pliability and a pleasant scent note to the emulsion, and Olive wax, frequently used to reinforce the structure of a cream. For firmer textures, formulators sometimes combine it with the classic emulsifier Lanette SX, blending natural and conventional emulsifying systems to achieve the desired consistency.
When building a formula, keep in mind that this emulsifier is sensitive to sharp pH shifts, so the finished product should be adjusted toward a mildly acidic value after the emulsion has cooled. Store the raw material in a dry, cool place, in a tightly sealed container away from direct sunlight and moisture, at room temperature without sudden fluctuations. The small pack size makes it convenient to test ratios repeatedly without risking spoilage of a larger stock, which is particularly useful while developing a personal cream or lotion formula.
Light Olive Oil Hand Cream
Distilled water 70 ml
SIMULGREEN 18-2 4 g
Olive oil 8 ml
Olive wax 3 g
Glycerin 3 ml
Lavender essential oil 3 drops
Heat
the water phase to 75 degrees, separately melt the oil phase containing the
emulsifier and wax to the same temperature, then slowly pour the oil phase into
the water phase while stirring continuously until a uniform emulsion forms.
Cool to 40 degrees, mix in the glycerin and essential oil, stir well, and
transfer to a clean jar for storage.