Perfectly Balance Your Emulsion Systems for Stable Lotions, Creams, and Serums
Why HLB Matters
The Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) system is the secret to creating stable, professional-grade cosmetics that won’t separate over time. Every oil, butter, and wax in your formulation requires a specific amount of “lifting power” to blend seamlessly with water. By calculating the exact Required HLB of your lipid phase, you can select the perfect ratio of emulsifiers to lock your formula together.
Say goodbye to split lotions and separated creams. Use our specialized tool below to take the guesswork out of your R&D process.
How to Use This Calculator:
Define Your Oil Phase: Select the oils, butters, and waxes you are using from the dropdown menus. Enter the exact weight or percentage for each. (Note: Only include lipids; water and water-soluble extracts do not affect your HLB).
Select Your Emulsifiers: A stable emulsion typically requires a blend of two emulsifiers—one with a low HLB (lipophilic/oil-loving) and one with a high HLB (hydrophilic/water-loving). Select your desired pair from our Essentials by Catalina inventory.
Get Your Formula: The calculator will automatically determine the Target HLB of your unique oil blend and provide the precise percentage of each emulsifier needed to achieve a perfect, stable emulsion.
Ready to formulate? Enter your ingredients below and click “Print / Save Recipe” when you have found your perfect ratio.
1. Define Your Oil Phase
Add the oils, butters, and waxes in your formulation and their weights.
| Ingredient | Required HLB |
Amount/Weight
(Use any unit: g, oz, or %. Just be consistent!)
|
|---|
2. Select Your Emulsifier System
Choose two emulsifiers. To achieve stability, your Target HLB must fall exactly between Emulsifier A and Emulsifier B.
