Cosmetic Your Ways Blog

Zachariah Kovac 5/22/26 Zachariah Kovac 5/22/26

Alcohols in Cosmetic Chemistry: Function, Misconceptions, and Formulation Strategy

Few ingredient classes in cosmetics are as misunderstood as alcohols. Often labeled simply as “drying” or “harsh,” alcohols actually represent a diverse group of materials with vastly different functions—from volatile solvents to rich, skin-conditioning emollients.

Understanding how to use them correctly is essential for modern formulation.

Zachariah Kovac 5/15/26 Zachariah Kovac 5/15/26

Ethers in Cosmetic Chemistry: Slip, Solvency, and Subtle Performance Boosters

Ethers are a quieter category in cosmetic chemistry—rarely marketed, often overlooked, but incredibly valuable in formulation design. They bridge the gap between hydrocarbons and esters, offering unique combinations of stability, solvency, and sensory performance.

Zachariah Kovac 5/8/26 Zachariah Kovac 5/8/26

Esters in Cosmetic Chemistry: Designing Slip, Spread, and Sensory Elegance

If hydrocarbons are the backbone of many formulations, esters are the artists—responsible for transforming heavy, greasy systems into elegant, fast-absorbing products. Esters are among the most powerful tools a formulator has for tuning skin feel, playtime, and absorption.

Zachariah Kovac 5/1/26 Zachariah Kovac 5/1/26

Hydrocarbons in Cosmetic Chemistry: Function, Formulation, and Feel

Hydrocarbons are some of the most widely used—yet often misunderstood—ingredients in cosmetic formulations. From luxurious balms to lightweight serums, these materials play a critical role in texture, stability, and performance. This post breaks down what hydrocarbons are, why formulators rely on them, and how to use them effectively.

Ask your formulation questions here! (Free Post)

Zachariah Kovac 4/29/26 Zachariah Kovac 4/29/26

Preview

Ask your formulation questions here! (Free Post)

Zachariah Kovac 4/17/26 Zachariah Kovac 4/17/26

Hard Water vs. Surfactants: What’s Really Happening in Your Formula?

If you’ve ever noticed a cleanser that worked beautifully in the lab but underperformed in real-world use, hard water might be the culprit. It’s one of those quietly disruptive variables that can completely change how a surfactant system behaves—impacting foam, cleansing efficiency, mildness, and even aesthetics.

Let’s unpack what’s going on at a chemical level, and more importantly, how different classes of surfactants respond.

Zachariah Kovac 4/10/26 Zachariah Kovac 4/10/26

Spring Break Sunless Tanner Face & Body Cream

Zachariah Kovac 4/8/26 Zachariah Kovac 4/8/26

Ingredient Guide: Erythrulose

Zachariah Kovac 4/8/26 Zachariah Kovac 4/8/26

Ingredient Guide: Dihydroxyacetone (DHA)

Learn more about the active in sunless tanner.

Zachariah Kovac 4/6/26 Zachariah Kovac 4/6/26

Pastel Matte Eyeshadows (Formula and Color Blends)

I have been obsessed with Rosie (@thelabgurrrl) with all her color cosmetic formulations. With clean girl makeup gone, we're back to creative makeup. So I want to start sharing formulation with a bang. Zara Larson's makeup artist, Sophia Sinot, has been carrying the creative looks. So, I want to make some pastel eyeshadows.

Disclaimer:

You are at your own risk when making anything from this blog. I am not liable for any mishaps that may occur. I do my best to include everything in the procedure to minimize the likelihood of accidents. My recommendation is always to read the post entirely first and then make the product.
Please keep in mind that these recipes/formulations are NOT meant to be sold or reproduced in large quantities. None of my recipes has been appropriately stability tested. I recommend seeking professional help if you want to start your own line of business. (link)
Always test a patch of new ingredients before using them.
Comments and opinions written by authors on Cosmetic Your Ways are their own and do not represent the views of any past, present, or future employers.