Your Cosmetic Chemist

By Kennece ShakiAvon YOUR COSMETIC CHEMIST When I first started formulating, I was honestly overwhelmed by emulsifiers. Every supplier seemed to recommend something different, ingredient forums contradicted one another, and social media made it feel like certain emulsifiers were “good” while others were somehow “bad.” The truth is much more scientific than that. An emulsifier is simply a tool. Different emulsifiers create different textures, different aesthetics, and different formulation...

When formulating cosmetics at home, one of the most important concepts to understand and implement is Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This is what separates a product that is simply “made” from one that is safe, stable, and professionally executed. GMP is not just for large-scale laboratories—it applies to every single batch you create, regardless of size. If you are working with water-based products, actives, or even anhydrous systems that may come into contact with moisture during use,...

There’s something undeniably appealing about herbal teas in skincare. Chamomile, lavender, calendula—these ingredients feel gentle, natural, and nurturing. Many DIY formulators are drawn to the idea of brewing a tea and incorporating it directly into lotions, creams, or toners. But from a formulation and safety standpoint, herbal teas are one of the most problematic ingredients you can introduce into a water-based cosmetic product. Let’s break down exactly why. 1. Herbal Teas Are a Microbial...