How to Use AccessGEL EG in Your Formulations
Understanding AccessGEL EG
If you’ve ever wanted to create a solid product like a lip balm or deodorant stick without the heavy, waxy feeling, AccessGEL EG is the ingredient you need. It’s a specialized gelling agent that works its magic on oils. Instead of relying on waxes to create structure, AccessGEL EG builds a microscopic, invisible network within the oil phase of your formula. This network traps the liquid oils, turning them into a perfectly clear, solid gel or stick.
For the chemistry-minded, AccessGEL EG is a low-molecular-weight molecule derived from L-Glutamic acid (an amino acid). Through a process of self-assembly, these molecules link together to form a stable, fibrous mesh that provides structure and viscosity. The result is a product with the sensory feel of the pure oils you used, rather than the feel of the structuring agent itself. This allows for lightweight, elegant textures that are difficult to achieve with traditional waxes.
Formulation Tips
Using AccessGEL EG is straightforward, but it requires heat to activate. The typical usage rate is between 0.5% and 5%, depending on the oils you are using and how firm you want your final product to be. For a soft gel, start around 1–2%. For a firm stick, you may need to go up to 4–5%.
Here’s the basic process:
- Combine AccessGEL EG with the oil phase of your formula (including all your liquid oils, emollients, and other oil-soluble ingredients).
- Heat the mixture to 80–90°C (176–194°F) while stirring gently until the AccessGEL EG has completely dissolved and the solution is clear.
- Once dissolved, pour the hot liquid into your final packaging (e.g., lipstick tubes or deodorant containers).
- Allow the mixture to cool undisturbed to room temperature so the gel network can form properly.
AccessGEL EG works well with a wide range of non-polar to medium-polarity oils and emollients, including esters, hydrocarbons, and silicones. It is often used alongside Dibutyl Lauroyl Glutamide to create different textures and enhance stability.
Key Formulation Benefits:
- Creates Wax-Free Formulas: Develop solid sticks and balms that glide on smoothly and feel incredibly lightweight, without the heavy or greasy residue often left by waxes.
- Elegant & Transparent Gels: Produces crystal-clear gels and sticks, allowing you to create visually stunning products with a smooth, sophisticated texture.
- Excellent Thermal Stability: The gel structure is highly robust and helps improve temperature stability, reducing the risk of melting or softening in warm conditions.
- Versatile Application: Ideal for a wide range of anhydrous products, from skincare and sun care to color cosmetics and solid fragrances.
- Enhances Sensory Profile: Preserves the natural feel of your chosen oils and emollients, delivering a luxurious, non-greasy user experience.
- Easy to Formulate: Simple heat-and-cool process creates a stable gel network—accessible for both beginner and advanced formulators.