Cremes are among the most frequently used cosmetic products. Cosmetic cremes can be either end products or basic substances for further processing. They are multi-phase preparations and contain both aqueous and lipophilic phases. During production, all the ingredients of cosmetic cremes are processed to emulsions which have hydrophobic or hydrophilic properties. The hydrophobic cremes are greasing, water-repellant and cannot be removed by washing. These consist of a mixture of substances with differing viscosities, such as water, oil and wax. In contrast, hydrophilic cremes can be removed by washing, are readily distributable, rapidly absorbed and, for this reason, must be produced from very fine emulsions, so that the active ingredients contained can optimally develop.
Homogenising mixers/process plants for use in the production of cosmetics should possess special properties. Pressure and vacuum-proof machine construction are advantageous for the production of particularly stable and closely distributed emulsions. In the production of cosmetic cremes, a low particle size and optimum particle distribution are of paramount importance in order to achieve the best possible unfolding of the effects of all active substances. A scraper system that is independent of the direction of rotation results in excellent radial and vertical mixing with highly viscous products, as well as intensive homogenisation with adjustable shear energy, to an optimum product quality. With these properties, the process plants are aimed to guarantee the production of permanently stable emulsions with optimum particle distribution. Furthermore, these machines should comply with current standards for production machines, also with regard to future developments. The homogenising mixers/process plants should be of aseptic, GMP-compliant and integrated Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) design and ensure fulfillment of all hygiene regulations.