Emulsion stabilising

Such ingredients help the emulsion to remain homogeneous: they keep water and oil in a stable state, reduce the risk of delamination, the appearance of oil droplets on the surface and consistency changes over time. According to the definition of the European CosIng database, their task is to improve the stability of the emulsion, and in practice this is especially important for creams, lotions, milk and conditioners, where comfortable application directly depends on a smooth, plastic texture. Due to this, the product is more easily distributed over the skin or hair, does not "float", does not clump and retains its desired properties for longer. (webgate.ec.europa.eu)

For skin and hair, such components act mainly indirectly: they do not so much take care of themselves as they support the proper functioning of the entire formula. If the emulsion is stable, the active ingredients, softening oils and moisturizing ingredients are distributed more evenly, and the product feels smoother and more predictable in use. Often such substances simultaneously affect the viscosity, so the product appears more dense, silky or creamy. This is especially noticeable in the care of dry skin, in sunscreen products and in hair balms, where both the durability of the formula and a pleasant texture are important. (cir-reports.cir-safety.org)

Typical examples are Xanthan Gum and Glyceryl Stearate Citrate. Xanthan gum is known as a thickener and stabilizer of emulsions, especially in aqueous systems, and glyceryl citrate stearate helps to form and maintain a stable emulsion structure in creams and lotions. It is these ingredients that are largely responsible for ensuring that the product remains beautiful, convenient and effective not only at the time of release, but also throughout the entire period of use. (pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)