How to Use Starphere T5-WH34 in Your Formulations
Understanding Starphere T5-WH34
Starphere T5-WH34 adds an exciting, menthol-powered sensory experience to oral care products. Think of these tiny white beads as capsules of freshness. They are designed to be suspended in a toothpaste or mouthwash base, remaining intact in the package but breaking down easily with the mechanical friction of brushing. When they break, they release a burst of encapsulated menthol, delivering an immediate and noticeable cooling sensation right where it counts.
For the formulator, this is an easy way to create a product that stands out on shelf and in-use. The beads provide visual appeal that signals freshness before the first brush. The bead matrix—based on corn starch, cellulose, and sweeteners such as mannitol and sucrose—makes the system ideal for oral care. This delivery technology protects menthol from premature interaction or evaporation, preserving impact until the moment of use.
Formulation Tips
The key to success is preserving bead integrity during manufacturing and storage so they release menthol only during brushing.
- Usage Rate: Use 0.5% to 3.0%. Choose the lower end for a subtle visual effect and mild freshness boost, and the upper end for a stronger menthol burst with more visible beads.
- Processing: Add the beads during the final step of manufacturing. Gently fold into the finished toothpaste or mouthwash base using low-shear mixing to avoid premature breakage.
- Temperature: Incorporate only after the base has cooled completely. Elevated temperatures can soften the starch-based structure and compromise bead integrity.
- Suspension: Ensure sufficient viscosity and structure to keep beads evenly suspended. The 600–850 μm particle size is optimized for typical toothpaste rheology. Use appropriate thickeners (e.g., xanthan gum or carbomer) to prevent settling.
Key Performance Benefits
- Refreshing Sensory Burst: Instant cooling from menthol released upon brushing enhances the perception of cleanliness.
- Visual Appeal: Distinct white specks suspended in the base add shelf appeal and signal freshness and efficacy to consumers.
- Controlled Menthol Release: Protects menthol in-formula and releases on demand during use for maximum impact.
- Biodegradable & Microplastic-Free: Starch- and cellulose-based beads provide a sustainable alternative to plastic microbeads.
- Enhanced User Experience: Transforms routine brushing into a more engaging, refreshing experience that can improve compliance.