Rheology modifiers are complex ingredients that help to bring about exacting viscosity and flow to cosmetic formulations, an increasingly important element for formulators who need to match the exacting sensory standards consumers have.
However, because of the complexity of these substances they are also often challenging to produce as certified natural, something that makes Ashlands rheology modifier stand out.
Meets Ecocert and Cosmos standards
The company says that, following a significant development process, Suprcol U Guar has been acknowledged by natural and organic certification body Ecocert as reaching its standards, and has also been given the Cosmos standard for natural cosmetics.
According to Ashland, Supercol GF Guar and Supercol U Guar rheology modifiers are all-natural, high-purity, water-soluble guar gums that can be specified by formulators to thicken personal care formulations.
Supercol polymers are extracted from guar endosperm and supplied as powders of varying granulation and viscosity, depending on the desired viscosity.
Tapping into natural and sensory trends
The natural certification of the two rheology modifiers taps into two distinct trends within the personal care and cosmetics segments – the natural and organic trend, together with the growing trend for formulations with the right sensory attributes.
The natural and organic trend has been fast expanding over the last ten years or so and has emerged from a small niche to distinct category thanks to consumer awareness and demand for products with health and wellness attributes.
Likewise, the sensory attributes of formulations are also paramount, with distinct attributes increasingly expected by consumers of different types of formulations.
This means that, for example, a skin care lotion needs to be of the correct viscosity, to give it the correct feel, while also allowing it to be adequately absorbed into the skin.