Here are several of the key cosmetic raw materials available on Rchem, along with how they are typically used.
1. Benzalkonium Chloride (BKC 80%)
- Use: Preservative / Antimicrobial agent Rchem
- Application: Widely used in personal-care and cosmetic products (e.g., cleansers, hand sanitizers, shampoos, disinfectants) to prevent microbial contamination. Its antimicrobial and antifungal properties help preserve product integrity and ensure safety. Rchem
2. Propylparaben Sodium
- Use: Preservative (paraben class) Rchem
- Application: Used in water-based cosmetics such as creams, lotions, shampoos, and gels to extend shelf life by preventing bacterial, yeast, and mold growth. Because it’s more water-soluble than propylparaben, it blends well in aqueous formulations. Rchem
3. Benzophenone-4 (BP-4)
- Use: Sunscreen / UV filter Rchem
- Application: Commonly added in sunscreens, lotions, creams, sprays, hair care products, and other cosmetic formulations to absorb UVA (and sometimes UVB) radiation. This helps protect skin (and hair) from sun damage, premature aging, and UV-induced degradation. Rchem
4. Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC / Octinoxate)
- Use: Sunscreen / UVB filter Rchem
- Application: Used in sunscreen creams, lotions, foundations, daily moisturizers, lip balms, and other cosmetic products to absorb UVB rays from sunlight — helping prevent sunburn and skin damage while maintaining a smooth, non-greasy finish. Rchem
5. Ethylene Glycol Distearate (EGDS)
- Use: Emulsifier / Texture enhancer Rchem
- Application: Commonly used in creams, lotions, body washes, and other cleansing products. EGDS helps to form stable emulsions (blend oil and water phases), giving the final product a smooth texture and often a pearlescent (pearl-like) appearance. It helps improve consistency and aesthetic quality of cosmetic formulations. Rchem
6. Polysorbate 20 (P20)
- Use: Emulsifier / Surfactant / Solubilizer Rchem
- Application: Frequently used in products like body sprays, facial cleansers, shampoos, creams, lotions, and more. Polysorbate 20 helps dissolve essential oils or fragrances into water-based formulations so that the final product remains clear and stable. It also improves texture, spreadability, and overall feel especially in formulations for sensitive skin. Rchem
7. Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)
- Use: Surfactant / Foaming agent / Cleanser Rchem
- Application: Used in shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, and other personal care products. Ammonium lauryl sulfate generates rich lather, removes oils, dirt, and impurities from skin and hair, and helps in cleansing. It is described as milder than sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), making it a more skin- and hair-friendly surfactant in many formulations. Rchem
8. PVP K-30 (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)
- Use: Film-former / Binder / Stabilizer / Thickener Rchem
- Application: Used in hair care products like gels, styling sprays, and mousses to provide hold, shine, and texture. It also helps stabilize formulations, control viscosity, and improve adhesion. In cosmetics, it adds to the product’s performance for example, helping a gel stay on hair longer or giving a styling product better hold. Rchem
9. Green Tea Extract Distillate (Camellia sinensis, water-soluble)
- Use: Natural antioxidant / Skin-soothing & clarifying agent Rchem
- Application: Commonly used in skin-care products such as toners, serums, facial cleansers, lotions, and water-based emulsions. Its antioxidant and anti-aging properties help soothe skin, reduce irritation (e.g., for acne-prone or oily skin), brighten complexion, and offer astringent benefits. Water-soluble form makes it ideal for clear formulations like toners or facial mists. Rchem
10. Potassium Sorbate
- Use: Natural / “Clean-label” preservative Rchem
- Application: Used in cosmetic formulations such as lotions, creams, shampoos, serums — especially in products marketed as “natural” or “paraben-free.” It helps inhibit growth of molds, yeasts, and some bacteria, thus extending shelf life while maintaining a cleaner ingredient profile. It’s suitable for water-based or emulsified products, especially those with lower pH (around 3.0–6.5). Rchem
Why This List Matters for Cosmetic Manufacturers and Brands
- Comprehensive Formulation Options: Using chemicals like emulsifiers (EGDS, Polysorbate 20), preservatives (BKC, potassium sorbate, propylparaben), UV filters (Benzophenone-4, OMC), surfactants (ALS), and natural actives (green tea extract) gives cosmetic formulators flexibility to create a wide range of products from cleansers and lotions to sunscreen, hair care, serums, and more.
- Compliance with Market Needs: Some of these ingredients (like potassium sorbate or Polysorbate 20) are important for “clean label” or “natural / mild” product lines, which are increasingly in demand.
- Stability and Shelf Life: Appropriate preservatives and stabilizers help ensure products remain safe and effective over time essential for cosmetic businesses supplying retail or wholesale markets.
- Varied Product Categories Covered: The chemicals cover nearly all cosmetic product types: skin care, hair care, sun care, body care, cleansing, styling, etc.