What is it?

An emulsion is a uniform mixture composed of 2 immiscible liquids (liquids that do not often mix well together) – water (the aqueous phase) and oil (the oil phase) using the binding agent called the emulsifier. The cream has a smooth consistency that is mainly made of water, which can be easily absorbed and ideal for face and body hydration on a daily basis. Good skin hydration is important to protect the skin barrier from external aggressors.

Its purpose

You mean use it as a base for any of the following:

• Moisturizer: to provide moisture for the face and body
• Make-up removing milk/make-up remover: to remove make-up from the skin effectively
• Fluid body milk: to relieve tight skin after a shower
• Hand or foot cream: to protect these areas from dryness
• Cold cream: a rich cream to give the skin a deep nourishment
• Conditioner: to help detangle hair and promote smooth hair texture

Composition

• Aqueous phase (60-85%) – water, hydrolat, hydroglycerine extract
• Oil phase (10-30%) – preservative
• Emulsifier (~3-8%) – emulsifying wax
• Preservative (~0.6%) – Cosgard
• Additional ingredient options: essential oils, hydrating agents (vegetable glycerin, aloe vera gel) or rejuvenating agents (vitamin E), fragrance, natural coloring, natural exfoliant

Modify the texture

• 3-5% emulsifying wax -> liquid cream
• 5-8% emulsifying wax -> thick cream

Basic procedure

1. Weigh and put the ingredients of the water phase and oil phase into 2 separate bowls. Add the emulsifying wax to the oil phase bowl.
2. Heat these 2 bowls in the water bath or bain-marie until the emulsifying wax has completely melted or the bowls reach to the temperature of 70 C/158 F.
3. Remove them from the heat and choose either:
   • Pour the water phase into the oil phase (water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion, which creates thicker, richer cream)
   • Pour the oil phase into the water phase (oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion, which creates lighter cream)
4. Mix vigorously with a small stainless steel whisk until the cream becomes white and homogeneous.
5. To speed up the cooling process, put the bowl in the bath of cold water and keep mixing until the cream becomes thicken and smooth.
6. Add and stir the remaining ingredients such as preservative and other additional ingredients to the cream one at a time to make sure the mixture is blended well.
7. Transfer the finished product to a container of your choice.

Final Thoughts

Making an emulsion may sound technical at first, but once you understand the roles of water, oil, and an emulsifier, it becomes a flexible and rewarding foundation for countless DIY creations. With just a few adjustments to your ingredients or emulsifying wax percentage, you can transform one basic formula into anything from a lightweight daily moisturizer to a rich, nourishing cream for skin or hair. More importantly, emulsions give you full control over what goes onto your body—allowing you to tailor texture, function, and ingredients to your personal needs.

✨ Now it’s your turn: What do you plan to make with your first emulsion—face cream, body milk, conditioner, or something unique? Have a favorite ingredient or tip you love adding to your emulsions? Share your ideas and experiences in the comments to inspire fellow makers!