How do you estimate shelf life of your finished lotion/cream

[saj2004]

I was wondering how you guys out there estimate how long your finished lotion/cream will last? Currently, I make small batches so they don't last very long because I use them up and just make more. But if I wanted to make a larger batch, what is a good method to determine shelf life?

Thanks!

 

[Stinkydancer]

It depends on the oils that you use in your formulation providing you also use a broad spectrum preservative which is absolutely necessary in lotion to keep the nasties at bay.

If you use oils that have a shorter shelf life such as Hemp- then you want to basically give that lotion about 4-6 months depending on when the oil expires.

Vitamin E can help with oil rancidity so this can help with that if added.

It's hard to know without knowing what oils your using.

I would say between 4 months to a year.[/img]

 

[saj2004]

It depends on the oils that you use in your formulation providing you also use a broad spectrum preservative which is absolutely necessary in lotion to keep the nasties at bay.

If you use oils that have a shorter shelf life such as Hemp- then you want to basically give that lotion about 4-6 months depending on when the oil expires.

Vitamin E can help with oil rancidity so this can help with that if added.

It's hard to know without knowing what oils your using.

I would say between 4 months to a year.[/img]

Thanks for the reply! I have been using cocoa butter lately a lot and I always make sure to use a preservative like germall plus. Usually it is used up within 3 months, but I am thinking about making a larger batch to store for longer. I think I will add some vitamin e next time too. Got a supplier to recommend?

 

[dagmar88]

Re: How do you estimate shelf life of your finished lotion/c

I was wondering how you guys out there estimate how long your finished lotion/cream will last? Currently, I make small batches so they don't last very long because I use them up and just make more. But if I wanted to make a larger batch, what is a good method to determine shelf life?

Thanks!

:wink: Testing.

If it's for personal use only and you don't have this option, it's simply 'a rule of the thumb'.
Try packaging in a way that bacteria are not likely to be introduced to the product, using 'fresh' ingredients and refrigerating oils that have a short shelf life.