Olivem 1000 MB Natural Emulsifier

Olivem 1000 is a complete, self-emulsifying system, which is what sets it apart from single surfactants that need to be paired and HLB-matched. You add it to the oil phase, heat both the oil and water phases, then combine them to form a liquid-crystal emulsion that closely mimics the skin’s natural barrier. The result is a moisturiser that feels rich without being greasy and that helps support the skin’s own hydration.

It is a warm-process emulsifier, not a cold-mix one, so both phases need to be heated to roughly 70 to 75°C before combining. For thicker creams and improved stability, it is commonly paired with a co-emulsifier such as Lanette O, and the water phase can be thickened with xanthan gum.

• Olive-Derived & Natural: Made from olive oil, PEG-free, non-ionic and not ethoxylated.
• Skin-Identical Emulsions: Chemically similar to skin’s lipid composition for deeply moisturising creams and lotions.
• Silky Skin Feel: Excellent spreadability with a light, non-greasy finish.
• Wide pH Tolerance: Works across a pH range of 3 to 12, suiting a broad variety of actives.
• Easy to Use: A complete emulsifier at just 1.5 to 4%, no HLB matching required.
• Vegan Approved: No GMOs, no artificial additives, never tested on animals.

Usage Rate

Use Olivem 1000 at 1.5 to 4% of your total formulation. As a rough guide:

Method

• Add Olivem 1000 to your oil phase.
• Heat the oil phase and water phase separately to roughly 70 to 75°C.
• Combine the two phases and blend until a smooth emulsion forms.
• Continue stirring as it cools. Add heat-sensitive actives, fragrance and a broad-spectrum preservative once the batch is below 40°C.

Sample Formulations

Starting points only. Adjust to your own recipe and always include a broad-spectrum preservative in any water-containing product.

• Light facial lotion: ~2% Olivem 1000, ~8 to 12% carrier oils, water to 100%, plus preservative.
• Rich body cream: ~4% Olivem 1000, ~15 to 20% oils and butters, water to 100%, plus preservative. Add a pinch of xanthan gum to the water phase for body.
• Whipped moisturiser: Build on our body butter base with a small Olivem 1000 emulsion for a lighter, faster-absorbing feel.

Ingredient Information

• INCI: Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate
• Derived from: Olive oil
• Properties: PEG-free, preservative-free, non-ionic, not ethoxylated
• Sourcing: 100% natural, vegan approved, never tested on animals

Physical Characteristics

• Form: Emulsifying wax (pellets/flakes)
• pH compatibility: Stable across pH 3 to 12
• Process: Warm process, both phases heated to roughly 70 to 75°C

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• For cosmetic formulation use. Follow the 1.5 to 4% usage rate.
• Always add a broad-spectrum preservative to any product that contains water.
• Take care when working with heated phases to avoid burns.
• Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
• Classified as a dangerous good. Cannot be sent overseas or by express post within Australia.

Is Olivem 1000 vegan?

Yes. It is vegan approved, derived from olive oil, with no GMOs or artificial additives and never tested on animals.

Can Olivem 1000 be used in cold-process recipes?

No. It is a warm-process emulsifier. Both the oil and water phases need to be heated to roughly 70 to 75°C before they are combined, so it cannot be cold-mixed.

What is the HLB value of Olivem 1000?

Olivem 1000 is a complete, self-emulsifying system rather than a single surfactant, so you do not need to HLB-match it the way you would when blending two emulsifiers. You simply use it at 1.5 to 4% of the formula.

What can Olivem 1000 be used as a substitute for?

It is widely used as a natural alternative to PEG-based emulsifying waxes in lotions and creams, giving a similar oil-in-water emulsion with an olive-derived, eco-friendlier profile.

How should I store it and how long does it last?

Store it sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check the product label or certificate of analysis for the exact best-before date for your batch.

What usage rate should I use?

Use Olivem 1000 at 1.5 to 4% of your total formulation, with the lower end for light lotions and the higher end for richer creams. See the usage table above.