What is the difference between processing moisturizers and lotions in cosmetics factories, and what are the commonly used ingredients for OEM/ODM processing

There are many differences between cosmetics factories processing moisturizers and lotions, and the commonly used ingredients in OEM/ODM processing are also different, as follows:

Product Form and Texture

Moisturizing cream: usually has a creamy texture, with a thick and semi-solid state. This is because its oil content is relatively high, which can form a thick protective film on the surface of the skin, and has a strong water locking and moisturizing effect.

Moisturizing milk: the texture is relatively light, lotion like, with strong liquidity. The ratio of oil and moisture is relatively moderate, making it easier for the skin to absorb, and it feels refreshing and non greasy after use.

Production process

Moisturizing cream: During the production process, strict temperature control is required for heating and emulsification. Generally, the oil phase components (such as Vaseline, lanolin, etc.) are heated to a higher temperature to melt them, and then the water phase components (such as deionized water, moisturizer, etc.) are added for emulsification. The emulsification time is relatively long to ensure the formation of a stable paste structure.

Moisturizing lotion: The emulsification process is relatively mild, and the temperature control range is narrow. Generally, the oil phase and water phase are heated to a certain temperature respectively, and then the water phase is slowly added to the oil phase for emulsification under stirring conditions. The control of stirring speed and time is critical to form a fine and even lotion texture.

Packaging form

Moisturizing cream: Due to its thick texture, it is generally packaged in wide mouthed bottles or cans for easy access. Some high-end products also use metal tube packaging, but the tube mouth is usually larger, making it easier to extrude the paste.

Moisturizing lotion: It is often packaged in extruded plastic bottles or hoses, making it convenient for consumers to control the dosage and easy to carry, suitable for daily use.

Common Ingredients for OEM/ODM Processing

Base oils: including natural oils (such as olive oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, etc.) and synthetic oils (such as mineral oil, silicone oil, etc.). In moisturizers, high melting point oils such as Vaseline and paraffin are often used to increase the consistency and sealing properties of the cream; And moisturizers use more lightweight and easily absorbable oils, such as squalane and grape seed oil.

Moisturizing agents: Common ones include glycerin, propylene glycol, butanediol, sodium hyaluronate, etc. They can absorb moisture from the air and retain it in the stratum corneum of the skin, keeping the skin moist. The amount of moisturizer used in moisturizers and lotions will be adjusted according to the moisturizing needs and texture characteristics of the product.

Emulsifier: used to uniformly mix oil phase and water phase to form a stable lotion or paste structure. Common emulsifiers include fatty acid glycerides, polysorbates, alkyl glycosides, etc. Different emulsifiers have different emulsifying effects and stability, and cosmetic factories will choose the appropriate emulsifier according to the specific requirements of the product.

Thickener: such as carbomer, xanthan gum, hydroxyethyl cellulose, etc., used to adjust the viscosity and consistency of the product. In moisturizers, the amount of thickener used is relatively large to form a creamy texture; In addition, proper use of moisturizer can ensure proper fluidity and stability of lotion.

Functional ingredients: Depending on the efficacy positioning of the product, some functional ingredients may be added, such as vitamin E, allantoin, plant extracts (such as purslane extract, licorice extract, etc.), which have antioxidant, soothing, repairing and other effects, and can enhance the skincare effect of the product.

Preservatives and fragrances: In order to prevent microbial contamination of the product during use, appropriate amounts of preservatives such as parabens and phenoxyethanol are added. At the same time, in order to improve the odor of the product, a small amount of spices will be added, but the amount of spices used is usually low to avoid irritation to the skin.