What is the Difference Between Hand Lotion and Face Lotion?

Some can be confused in the difference between hand lotion and face cream.  Sometimes, I have a difficult time understanding the difference myself.  But according to Wisegeek.com:

"While many people are of the opinion that all types of lotions are the same, the fact is that there are a few important differences between hand lotion and face lotion. These differences have to do with the effect that each type of lotion is designed to achieve, and the mixture of elements that are included in the basic formula. Here are three of the main differences between face lotion and hand lotion.

Hand lotion, like body lotion, is formulated to have a thicker consistency than face lotion. While it is true that both types of lotion are used to moisturize the skin, most people need a different level of moisturizing on the face than with the hands. This is because the facial area tends to contain sections that already exude a fair amount of natural oils. The thicker texture of hand lotion allows the product to more effectively treat the rough patches many people develop on knuckles and palms, since a residue will cling to the hands even after washing. By contrast, using this thicker lotion on the facial skin is likely to clog pores and create skin problems.

With face lotion, the idea is usually not only to moisturize but also to cleanse. Many creams and lotions that are formulated especially for the face will include cleansers that help to remove excess oil deposits from the pores of the skin. The result is that the face lotion is applied for a short time and then rinsed off the skin. Unlike hand lotion, there is no residue that continues to protect the face from the elements. Most people have enough natural oils to accomplish this task, and simply require face lotion to help augment the process.

Last, the formulas for hand lotion and face lotion often contain a range of nutrients that are especially blended for the special needs of skin on the hands or the face. The hand lotion will contain properties that will help to nourish the dryer skin found there, while face lotion will include nutrients that help to leave a smooth and clean complexion. Many types of face lotion today include elements that are meant to tighten the skin and provide a more youthful appearance. Those same elements would not work well with the hands, and could lead to cracking and scaling on the dryer texture of skin found on knuckles and palms.

The bottom line is that hand lotion and face lotion, just like other forms of lotions, are formulated to meet the specific needs of the skin found at different points on the human body. Choosing the right type of lotion or cream will result in helping the specific area to be healthy and look more attractive."

Source: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-difference-between-hand-lotion-and-face-lotion.htm

What is a Cold Cream?

I never used cold cream in my life. But when I hear of cold cream, I think of those old movies when the ladies put cold cream on their faces before they go to bed.  So I wanted to find out more about cold cream and found a very good explaination from Wisegeek.com:

"Cold cream is an emulsion of fats and water which can be used to clean and soften the skin. Traditionally, cold cream has been used to remove makeup gently at the end of the day, and it can also be used to soften tough skin on the knees and elbows, or to keep skin protected from harsh winter weather. Many drug stores and beauty suppliers sell cold cream, often in a variety of styles; different brands have different ingredients, and some people experiment with several before finding one which works.

The concept of cold cream is quite ancient. Credit for the invention is usually given to Galen, a second century Greek physician who developed an emulsion of beeswax, oil, rose petals, and water. The cream was designed to moisturize and condition the face, and to help remove the harsh makeup of the period. In some regions, cold cream is called “cream of Galen” or “Galen's cream” in a reference to this; the “cold” in cold cream comes from the cool, refreshing feeling that it leaves behind.

There are several ways to use cold cream. To remove makeup, a thin layer is spread on the face, allowed to sit for a moment, and then wiped off. Tissues or washcloths can be used to remove the cold cream. The moisturizing agents in the cream will condition the face and help it recover from harsh beauty products.

Cold cream can also be left on trouble spots overnight; some women, for example, rub it into their skin before bed, wiping it off in the morning, and it can be worn with gloves or socks to condition the feet and hands as well. Cold cream is also used in some home remedies; a classic remedy for scaly elbows is a mixture of cold cream and ground oats, rubbed gently into the skin and then wiped or rinsed off.

The oils in some cold creams can leave skin feeling greasy. People with oily skin may want to take a pass on this product unless they have been introduced to a brand which does not create an oily feeling. Cold cream can be scented or unscented, depending on preference, and the oils used can vary widely. Most companies do not use the olive oil recommended by Galen, for example, since it can go rancid quickly. Generally, cold cream keeps well at room temperature, and it should not go bad unless the climate is extremely hot or impurities are introduced to the container."

Source: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-cold-cream.htm

Lotion Percentages - Simple lotion making instructions

• by Judi

Many different oils can be combined in varying percentages to create an endless variety of lotionblends, each with their own qualities benefiting your sking in different ways.

To read about the oils we commonly use and their beneficial qualities, readIngredient and Oil Properties for Soap, Lotion, Serums, Bath and Body.

For our basic lotion recipe, we generally follow these percentages:

74% liquids of choice
Chose liquids based on the qualities you wish to add to your lotion. Lotions can be made using distilled water, milk, hydrosols or teas.

12% oils of choice
Oils should be chosen for their qualities. To help chose, spread a little oil on your own skin. If it feels good, try it. Try one oil, or a blend of oils to create the perfect blend for your skin needs.

5% glycerin (a humectant)
5% emulsifer (blends the oils and water)
3% stearic acid (thickener)
1% fragrance of choice (optional)
Unscented, qualitity fragrance oils, essential oils, or let your hydrosols scent it naturally.

Preservative used in recommended percentage, usually .1%-1% (chose one specifically for water-based products)

Simple instructions for making lotion:
- Combine all ingredients, except fragrance and preservative, heat to melting.
- Blend with mixer or stick blender until cooled.
- At approximately 120 degrees or so, add fragrance and preservative.
- Pour into sterilized containers.

Soft & Silky Handmade Lotion Recipe provides specific ingredients and amounts.

Source: http://www.mommamuse.com/2006/11/09/lotion-percentages-simple-lotion-making-instructions/

Making your own Lotions

If you are interested in making your own lotions, I found some links that may help you out.

http://www.glenbrookfarm.com/makinglotions.htm

http://www.differentdaisy.com/nexternalhtml/beauty-without-cruelty-vegan-hand-and-body-lotion-.htm

http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art43668.asp

If you have any links you would like to add to this list, please let me know and I can add them on.

Homemade Lotions and Creams: Using Emulsifying Wax

Emulsifying wax is the basic component for most body lotions and skin creams. It is basically what keeps the lotions oil and water from separating in the bottle or jar. It does this by attracting both water molecules and oil molecules to its own molecular structure. By doing this it bonds the oil and water together and creates a smooth and creamy texture.

If you are interested in making your own body lotion, body butter, or body creams then you will need to find an emulsifying wax to act as your base. There are six basic types of emulsifying waxes that hobbyists use when making homemade body lotions. These include: Ceteareth 20, Glyceryl Stearate, Emulsifying Wax NF, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol/Ceteareth 20, and Polysorbate 20.

While all of the above ingredients are considered emulsifying wax, not all of these emulsifying waxes are appropriate for every type of lotion or cream. Ceteareth 20 is a common thickener and emulsifier for body lotions and creams. However, it works best when it is combined with another emulsifying wax such as Glyceryl Stearate.The amount of emulsifying wax that you use in your oil and water body lotion or cream will depend on what type of emulsifier you use. For example, Emulsifying Wax NF typically makes up between 3 and 6 percent of the total weight of the product being made. Polysorbate 20 is most commonly used for skin moisturizing sprays. When used for in its spray form it is added to the product in a 1 to 1 or 1 to 2 polysorbate 20 to essential oil ratio. If this emulsifier is used in a lotion or cream product then it will need to be used in conjunction with another emulsifier. If you use cetearyl alcohol then you it will need to make up between .1 percent and 3 percent of the products total weight.

For more information on how to make homemade soap as well as soap making recipes visit the http://www.pureandnaturalsoaps.com/. Check out the soap making message board to discuss techniques, share ideas and post your favorite soap and candle making recipes.



Source: http://enaalexzander.ircblog.net/2007/09/06/homemade-lotions-and-skin-creams-using-emulsifying-wax/

What is the Difference Between Face Cream and Body Lotion?

The big difference between face cream and body lotion is, of course, where you apply it. There are many different brands of skin care products on the market, with different formulas catering to select areas of the human body. Not only are there general face creams and body lotions, there are also eye serums, foot lotions, lip balms, and even cuticle creams. While the brand names and price may vary significantly among face cream and body lotion, the basic formula and method of use are fortunately constant.

Your face is the first part of your body that people see upon meeting you, and it is the face that provides the first visual impression. In order to preserve the youthful and fresh appearance of the facial skin, cosmetologists and dermatologists recommend a daily regimen of face cream applications. It is important for preventing the signs of premature aging, especially since the face is the first body part to succumb to excessive alcohol usage, smoking, fatigue, and stress. Facial skin also secretes more oily sebum from its pores than other body parts, especially when exposed to sunlight. In this sense the face is a high risk area for skin damage and must be protected early on.

The body, on the other hand, is everywhere below the neck and is often concealed under clothes, depending on weather. Because the body's skin is subject to less environmental damage, signs of premature aging are not as easily found as on the face, although excessive exposure to sunlight may prove the statement wrong. If a person is not well hydrated then he or she may have trouble retaining moisture in the skin, making it feel coarse and dry.

Face cream usually contains a higher Sun Protection Factor (SPF) due to its higher exposure to sun. Some face creams also claim to combat dryness, imbalances in sebum production, and acne based on ingredients. For example in younger people, face cream that contains alpha hydroxy acid, an enzyme that eats away the dull, dead layers of the skin to reveal a rejuvenated layer underneath has been recommended by dermatologists. For older people, face creams that actively fight signs of aging by reducing lines and wrinkles are desirable. Face creams are usually categorized by the type of skin they are intended to treat: dry, normal, oily, and combination. These different types of skin vary based on distribution of sebum production and all require different formulas of face cream.

Body lotion is usually a quickly absorbable formula that is intended to retain or replenish lost moisture. By helping the skin stay hydrated, it improves the look and feeling of softness in body skin, which is desirable. The formula of body lotion contains more water than oil, creating a thinner formula that is appropriate for daily, all-over use. Body lotion does not require a regimen, although many people find it convenient to apply it right after a shower or before going outdoors. Unlike face cream, body lotion comes in many scents. While facial skin is more sensitive to fragrance and other additives, body skin is naturally less prone to such irritation. Manufacturers of both these products have featured plant extracts, essential volatile oils, and emollients in their products, to try to enhance the lotion's marketable properties. Both face cream and body lotion can be found at any retailer where skin care products are sold.



Source: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-difference-between-face-cream-and-body-lotion.htm

Lotion Basics by Anne-Marie

Basic lotions are really just a mixture of 5 things:

1 - water
2 - oil
3 - emulsifier
4 - thickener
5 - preservative.

It’s important that these 5 ingredients be mixed in a very specific proportion. The proportion of one ingredient to another is what creates the right texture and consistency for lotion. Changing this proportion slightly will transform lotion into cream, using basically the same ingredients. An emulsifier brings the water and oil parts of lotion together into an emulsion, which is a sort of suspension. This prevents them from separating back into oil and water in the mix. Emulsifying wax is one of the best emulsifiers you can find. It produces a reliable and stable emulsion. Another emulsifier that is sometimes used in lotion making is soy lecithin.

Emulsifying wax typically makes up 5% of the total solution.

Working with percent formulas is not as hard as it might sound, even if you’re no math whiz. A digital scale that measures in grams is an essential tool to help with this. For example, if you want to make 1000 grams (a little over a quart) of lotion, here’s how the percentage weights break down:

Distilled water = 75% = 750 grams
Oil/Shea butter = 16% = 150 grams
Emulsifier = 5% = 50 grams
Stearic acid = 4% = 40 grams
Preservative = 1% = 10 grams
TOTAL = 101% = 1010 grams (including preservative)

Read more soap making questions and answers at Ask Anne-Marie!
Find lotion making ingredients including Emulsifiers, Stearic Acids, Preservatives and more.


Source: http://www.teachsoap.com/lotion_basics.html