Exploring Natural Solubilizers for Safe and Sustainable Formulations

Good morning,

I recently ran across an article discussing solubilizers, and I noticed the absence of my preferred options. This prompted me to compile a concise overview of natural solubilizers, their roles, and their benefits in creating safe, plant-derived products.

What is a Solubilizer?

A solubilizer is an agent that facilitates the integration of essential oils into water-based solutions. Technically, it enhances the solubility of otherwise immiscible substances. In practical terms, solubilizers ensure that products such as room or body sprays are safe for use. Without them, oil and water remain separate, potentially depositing undiluted essential oil droplets onto the skin. This can result in adverse effects, ranging from contact dermatitis and sensitization to severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock—we have observed this several times over the years.

The Need for Safe Emulsifiers and Solubilizers

Numerous emulsifiers and solubilizers are available for DIY formulations, yet not all align with a plant-derived ethos. This leads to a broader discussion often debated in online communities: how do we define “natural”?

For me, “natural” encompasses ingredients sourced from plants, even if they undergo human processing. Essential oils, widely regarded as natural, exemplify this—they require harvesting, steam distillation or even hexane extracted to become usable.

Processes far removed from simply gathering them in the wild.

Preferred Natural Solubilizers

Below, I outline three plant-derived solubilizers I favor, all of which meet Ecocert or Cosmos standards for sustainability and safety. These options are ideal for crafting effective, eco-conscious formulations.

1. PolySuga® Mulse D9

   CAS: 1443994-56-6

   • Type: Naturally derived, sugar-based

   • Source: Polyglucose from coconut and corn

   • Function: Solubilizer and mild emulsifier

   • Advantages: Ecocert-approved, plant-derived, gentle on skin, biodegradable

   • Limitations: May require higher concentrations compared to PEG-based alternatives

   • Certification: Ecocert-approved

   • You can buy it here; https://www.formulatorsampleshop.com/poly-suga-mulse-d9.html

     
     

     https://www.muddysoapco.com/shop/poly-sugamulse-d9-natural-polysorbate-replacement/

2. Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate

   CAS# 160391-93-5

   • Type: Naturally derived, PEG-free

   • Source: Glycerin and capric acid (typically from plant oils)

   • Function: Solubilizer and emulsifier

   • Advantages: Natural, mild, suitable for sensitive skin, biodegradable

   • Limitations: Slightly less efficient than PEG-based solubilizers

   • Certification: Cosmos-approved

   • Con- it’s not as effective as a solubilizer.

   • You can buy it at https://candlecocoon.com/products/polyglyceryl-4-caprate-new

3. Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside

   CAS# 68515-73-1

   • Type: Naturally derived, sugar-based

   • Source: Coconut and sugar

   • Function: Solubilizer and surfactant

   • Advantages: Fully natural, mild, enhances foaming and cleansing, biodegradable

   • Limitations: May result in slightly cloudy formulations rather than crystal-clear solutions

   • Certification: Ecocert and Cosmos-approved

   • Cons also not as effective as a solubilizer

   • You can buy it here;

     https://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/products/caprylyl-capryl-glucoside.aspx

4. Solubol

   CAS# not avl as it is a Product & not an ingredient.

   Type: Naturally derived

   Source: Vegatable Glycerin, water, soy lecithin, coconut extract, and natural antioxidants.

   Funtion: Solubilizer

   Advantage: Natural, Mild

   Limitations: 4:1 ratio- 4 parts Solubol to 1 part essential oils, expensive.

   Certification: Ecocert approved

   Cons: It contains Soy, expensive

   
   

These solubilizers offer plant-based options for creating safe products. You will need to test the appropriate concentrations that work for you and your blend of essential oils.

I hope this summary proves useful for those seeking sustainable alternatives in their formulations. Should you have questions or wish to explore sourcing options, feel free to reach out.

Had enough? 😁 Me too!

Have a Great Day!

Kris

Genesis 1:29

“And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.”