DIY Facial Cleanser (Foamy)

DIY Facial Cleanser (Foamy)

Simple and effective, facial cleanser the natural way.


If you've been searching for the perfect product to clean your face, without any artificial ingredients or preservatives, then look no further. This recipe is designed to show results, all while being gentle on the skin.

Ingredient Selection and Method

Phase A

Phase B

Phase C

Phase D

Phase A

Combine the Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cetostearyl Alcohol and Vegetable Glycerine in a beaker or heat-safe container of your choice. 

Phase B

  1. In a second container, add the Xanthan Gum and Vegetable Glycerine and mix together until unfiorm.
  2. Next, add the D-Panthenol and Vitamin B3, then stir again.
  3. Lastly for this phase, add the distilled water and the lactic acid solution.
  4. Weigh the combined Phase B ingredients and take note of the weight as we will need it later.

Phase C

  1. Fill a third container with 30g of Distilled Water (we added a bit more than required to make up for the water lost through evaporation).
  2. Place all three phases on a heat plate or in a water bath at low heat. 
  3. Keep heating all containers until the Phase A mixture is liquid and clear. 

Phase D

  1. Remove Phase A and C from heat and add 24.27g of the water from Phase C to the Phase A container.
  2. Stir consistently until the mixture is a glossy, clear gel.
  3. Weigh Phase B again and replace the lost weight with distilled water, then combine with the Phase A+C mixture and stir to combine.
  4. Leave the combined mixture to cool, then add the last ingredient, which is the Saliplus Liquid. 
  5. You will need to test the pH of your formulation to ensure it is in the optimum range for use on your skin.

Testing & Adjusting the pH

Most formulations containing water will need to be pH-tested. The optimum pH level for most formulations is around 5.5, so you will need to test it, and if necessary, adjust it to bring it to that level.  

To test the pH of your formulation, take a 2g sample of your complete mixture and mix it in 18g of distilled water. Insert a pH meter or pH strips into the mixture and wait for a reading. If the pH level is within the range of 5-5.5, you will not need to adjust it. If it is too high or too low, you will need to adjust it using a buffer solution. To learn more about pH levels and buffer solutions, check out our blog post.

Shelf Life & Storage

Since this formulation contains water, a preservative is required to keep it fresh and usable. The preservative in this recipe is Saliplus Liquid. 

Store this product in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. This will give it a shelf life of around one full year.

If you notice a change in scent, colour, or texture, dispose of it as it will not be fit for use.

Usage

Use as you would use any foaming facial cleanser. Take a small amount of product with a splash of water, rub it in your palms, and then massage onto your face. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off. 

This product can also be used without water. Apply the same way and use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off.