How to use HPMC in shampoo?

1. Introduction to HPMC

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) is a non-ionic cellulose ether widely used in personal care products such as shampoo, shower gel and conditioner. It has excellent thickening, emulsification stabilization, film-forming and moisturizing properties, which can improve the texture and user experience of shampoo.

2. The role of HPMC in shampoo

Thickening effect: HPMC has good rheological properties, which makes shampoo present a stable viscous state and improves the user experience.

Stabilize the emulsification system: It can enhance the stability of the shampoo emulsification system and prevent stratification or precipitation.

Enhance foam performance: Improve the durability and fineness of the foam, making the washing process smoother and more comfortable.

Improve lubricity: Form a thin protective film on the hair to enhance the softness and reduce the dryness.

Improve moisturizing: Reduce water loss and improve the moisture of hair and scalp.

3. Selection of HPMC

HPMC has a variety of viscosity grades (such as 400, 1500, 4000, 10000 mPa·s). When used in shampoo, the appropriate model should be selected according to the formulation requirements:

Low viscosity (400-1500 mPa·s): suitable for refreshing shampoos with strong fluidity, which will not excessively affect the texture.

Medium viscosity (4000-6000 mPa·s): suitable for ordinary shampoos, providing good thickening and stability.

High viscosity (above 10000 mPa·s): suitable for high-viscosity shampoos or products that require special moisturizing properties.

4. How to add HPMC to shampoo

HPMC is easily soluble in water, but the correct way of adding can ensure that it is fully dissolved and avoid agglomeration or formation of micelles. The common addition steps are as follows:

Method 1: Cold water dispersion method

Pre-dispersion: Slowly add HPMC to cold water or room temperature water (below 30°C) and stir continuously to make it evenly dispersed.

Swelling process: Let HPMC stand in water for 30-60 minutes to absorb water and swell to form a uniform dispersion.

Heating and dissolving: Slowly heat and stir at about 60°C to promote complete dissolution of HPMC.

Add shampoo base: After the HPMC solution cools, add the shampoo system according to the formula requirements and continue to stir evenly.

Method 2: Dry powder premixing method

Mix with other powders: HPMC can be mixed with a small amount of other powdered raw materials (such as sodium chloride, guar gum, etc.) to avoid agglomeration when adding water directly.

Slowly add water phase: Slowly sprinkle the mixed powder into the stirring water phase to ensure uniform dispersion.

Continue stirring: Stir for 30-60 minutes until it is completely dissolved and a stable system is formed.

Method 3: Organic solvent wetting method

First, wet HPMC with ethanol, propylene glycol or glycerin to form a protective film on its surface to reduce direct contact with water.

Add the wetted HPMC into water and stir to gradually hydrate and dissolve it.

Continue to add other ingredients according to the shampoo formula to ensure uniform mixing.

5. Recommended dosage of HPMC in shampoo formula

Generally recommended addition amount: 0.1% - 1.0% (adjust as needed)

Low viscosity shampoo: 0.1% - 0.3%

Medium viscosity shampoo: 0.3% - 0.6%

High viscosity shampoo: 0.6% - 1.0%

6. Factors affecting HPMC performance

pH value: HPMC is stable in the pH range of 3-11, but the most suitable pH value is between 5-7. Avoid extreme pH to affect viscosity and stability.

Ion concentration: High concentrations of electrolytes (such as sulfates and phosphates) may affect the thickening ability of HPMC, and the formula balance needs to be adjusted.

Temperature: HPMC's solubility increases after heating, but long-term high temperature may cause degradation, so long-term high temperature storage should be avoided.

7. Combination of HPMC with other thickeners

To optimize the texture and performance of shampoo, it can be used in combination with the following thickeners:

Guar Gum: Enhances moisturizing and lubricity, making shampoo smoother.

Carbomer: Increases transparency and viscosity, suitable for transparent shampoo.

Xanthan Gum: Provides good shear thinning properties and enhances stability.

HPMC is a high-quality thickener and stabilizer in shampoo, which can improve texture, enhance foam, and enhance lubricity and moisturizing properties. Correctly selecting the right model and using a reasonable addition method can ensure its optimal performance. By reasonably combining other formula ingredients, the user experience of shampoo can be optimized and the product competitiveness can be improved.