Solvay’s Solutions for Sulfate Free Formulations

Sulfate-free trend continues to grow worldwide, especially in North America and in Europe, explained by different drivers: the increased awareness of consumers about the ingredients entering their cosmetic products and their possible impact on their health & on the planet, the bad image of sulfates, perceived as harsh chemicals and associated with skin and eye irritation, etc.

However, in Sulfate Free, the formulators have to face many challenges, starting by achieving the desired viscosity, while keeping stability of the chassis over time. The salt topic is thus key. Indeed salt helps to build the viscosity but if present in too much quantity, it can cause also clarity and stability issues, especially when the formula incorporates cationic polymer for Hair/Skin conditioning, or naturally-derived thickening polymer with limited salt tolerance.

During the presentation, François-Florian will present the Solvay’s strong expertise in Sulfate Free formulations and the various developed ingredients and solutions to rise to these different challenges.