Biobased organogelator system for silicone-free oil thickeners in skin care
A naturally derived oil thickener system using biobased organogelators for skin care, offering silicone-like sensory attributes and clean beauty compliance. The system supports tunable textures, low processing temperatures, and a high Natural Origin Index.
Overview
The biobased organogelator system presents a revolutionary approach to oil thickening in skin care formulations, offering a naturally derived alternative to traditional silicone-based thickeners. This innovative system utilizes castor-derived gelators, fatty-acid derivatives, and crystalline lipid structurants, providing a modular framework that achieves stable three-dimensional oil networks. The solution not only maintains efficient oil structuring at under 10% loading but also delivers desirable sensory characteristics like smooth glide, low tack, and a non-greasy feel. Its colorless and odorless properties, combined with a Natural Origin Index above 80%, make it ideal for clean beauty brands and regulatory standards globally.
Technical specifications
- Composition: Castor-derived gelators, fatty-acid derivatives, crystalline lipid structurants (fatty alcohols, ester waxes)
- Processing: Efficient structuring at <10% loading, below 90 °C
- Sensory Attributes: Silicone-like smooth glide, low tack, non-greasy feel
- Modular Design: Tunable textures from fluid gels to balms or sticks
- Compliance: Natural Origin Index >80%, colorless, odorless, supports global regulatory compliance
Technology readiness level
Currently, the technology is at TRL 3, with lab validation confirming robust performance through rheology, thermal, and stability testing. Planned advancements through TRL stages 4 to 9 aim to optimize formulations, enhance scalability, and prepare for commercial launch with batch reproducibility and regulatory documentation in place.
About University of British Columbia
UBC is a comprehensive public research university with major campuses in Vancouver and the Okanagan, among Canada’s largest and most internationally connected. Industry engages through a co-op talent pipeline and collaborative research spaces that include co-located clinical settings and on‑campus testbeds. A dedicated technology transfer office brokers partnerships, manages IP and licensing, and is complemented by an active venture accelerator and incubator network. Research is supported by competitive funding from Canada’s Tri‑Council agencies (NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC) and infrastructure investments from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, alongside provincial and industry sponsorship.
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