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Cream cleanser

Format type

Oil-in-water cleansing emulsion

Target pH

5.0–5.5

Suitable for

Dry, sensitive, or barrier-compromised skin. Suitable for gentle daily cleansing.

What this formulation is

A lower-foam cleansing format designed to prioritise comfort, glide, and a softer rinse-off feel.

What this formulation delivers

Gentle cleansing with minimal foaming
Maintains skin comfort during washing
Light emollience to reduce post-cleanse dryness
Suitable for sensitive skin types
Cream-based cleansing texture

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 light oil-in-water emulsion
Keep oil phase moderate to provide slip without heaviness
Use mild surfactants at low levels for cleansing
Balance emulsifier and structure to maintain cream texture
Avoid high foam systems
Finalise with preservation and pH adjustment

Example formulation

Water (qs to 100%) G
Glycerin - 3–4%
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride - 5–8%
Sunflower Oil - 3–5%
Glyceryl Stearate Citrate - 2–3%
Cetearyl Alcohol - 2–3%
Cocamidopropyl Betaine - 3–5%
Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol - 0.8–1.0%

Notes

Cream cleansers combine a light emulsion system with low levels of surfactant to achieve gentle cleansing without excessive foaming.

The oil phase provides slip and helps dissolve surface impurities, while the surfactant system supports rinse-off. Keeping surfactant levels low is important to maintain skin comfort and avoid a stripped feeling after use.

Structure is created using a combination of emulsifier and fatty alcohols. Adjusting these levels will influence viscosity, richness, and rinse behaviour.

This type of system should remain fluid enough to spread easily, but structured enough to remain stable during storage.

pH should be maintained within a skin-compatible range to support barrier function.

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

Ingredients