Vegetable glycerin

It is a thick, colourless, odourless syrup produced as a by-product of soap making. It is found in every fat, both plant and animal; it is produced by the hydrolysis of fat or the fermentation of sugar. It softens the skin and helps it absorb and retain moisture. Glycerin is said to draw moisture from skin cells and in this way help maintain the skin’s natural moisture balance.

Glycerin is a viscous liquid with a sweet taste that is colourless and odourless. It is soluble in alcohol and water, but not in oils. It strongly binds water to itself and serves as a moisturising agent in cosmetic products. If you leave an open bottle of glycerin in the kitchen, after some time you will find the bottle contains 80% glycerin and 20% water. It works the same way in cosmetic products.

Hair conditioner recipe:

•         376 grams of distilled water or rosemary hydrolate (83%)
•         22 grams of vegetable glycerin (5%)
•        27 grams of BTMS emulsifier (6%)
•         13 grams of jojoba oil (3%)
•          4 grams of almond oil (1%)
•          4 grams of Optiphen preservative (1%)
•          4 grams of fragrance (essential or fragrance oil) (1%)

Combine all ingredients (except the preservative and fragrance) in a container and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the emulsifier is completely dissolved. Maintain the same temperature for approximately 10 more minutes, then remove from heat and wait for the mixture to cool below 60 degrees Celsius. Add the preservative and fragrance, stir well and pour into prepared bottles or containers.