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Formulation Guides

Barrier-support cream

Format type

Oil-in-water emulsion

Target pH

5.0–5.5

Suitable for

Dry, dehydrated, or compromised skin. Suitable for daily moisturising and barrier support.

What this formulation is

A structured emulsion designed to support barrier function and provide sustained hydration.

Barrier-support cream

What this formulation delivers

  • Reduces transepidermal water loss
  • Improves barrier resilience
  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Enhances skin softness andcomfort
  • Structured protective system

Before you begin

This formulation is designed as a starting point.

Small adjustments to ingredient levels will influence texture, absorption, and overall skin feel. Work within recommended usage ranges and adjust gradually.  

Check ingredient compatibility, pH, and preservation once the full system is assembled.

Formulation approach

  • Build a classic oil-in-water emulsion with separate water and oil phases
  • Use humectants in the water phase to support hydration
  • Add emollients in the oil phase to reduce moisture loss and improve skin feel
  • Select an appropriate emulsifier to stabilise the system
  • Use fatty alcohols to provide structure and viscosity
  • Balance oil phase to control richness and absorption
  • Finalise with preservation and adjust pH to maintain stability

Example formulation

Water (qs to 100%) 
Glycerin - 3-5% 
Niacinamide - 2-4% 
Panthenol - 1–2% 

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - 5–10% 
Sunflower Oil - 3-5% 
Squalane - 2-5% (optional) 

Glyceryl Stearate Citrate - 2-4% 
Cetearyl Alcohol - 2-4% 
or 
Cetyl Alcohol - 1-3% 

Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (Preservative) - 0.8-1.0%

Notes

Ensure correct heating phases and emulsification technique. Stability depends on emulsifier system and shear.

These formulations are provided as examples to support your own development. They are starting points, not finished systems.

Ingredients

Ingredients to build this formulation

Explore the ingredients referenced in this formulation guide.

Shop all ingredients
Glycerin (USP) Sale price 100g From $6.95
Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (MCT Oil)
Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides (MCT Oil) Sale price 100 g From $12.95
Sunflower Oil (High Oleic)
Sunflower Oil (High Oleic) Sale price 100 g From $7.95
Olive Squalane Sale price 50 g From $16.95
Cetearyl Alcohol Flakes
Cetearyl Alcohol Flakes Sale price 100 g From $6.95
Cetyl Alcohol
Cetyl Alcohol Sale price 100 g From $9.95
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate Sale price 100 g From $9.95
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate Sale price 100 g From $9.95
Niacinamide Powder Sale price 50 g From $11.95
D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Sale price 100 g From $21.95
Panthenol 10% Solution
Panthenol 10% Solution Sale price 100 g From $10.95
Phenoxyethanol & Caprylyl Glycol Preservative Sale price 50 g From $14.95