Jarchem Introduces Akogel to Naturally Improve Body and Consistency in Skincare Products
Akogel is a Natural Alternative to Petrolatum

Newark, NJ, April 25, 2003 - Jarchem Industries, supplier of specialty ingredients for the cosmetics and personal care industry, and the exclusive distributor for Karlshamns of Sweden, introduces Akogel, a high quality emollient base that improves body and consistency in skincare formulations, while enhancing moisturizing qualities. Akogel is a proprietary blend of hydrogenated vegetable oils and is a natural alternative to petrolatum, which has been traditionally used to improve texture and consistency in skincare products.

Suitable for a wide range of applications, Akogel is recommended at high concentrations as an alternative to petrolatum in ointments, baby care products, lip balms, hand creams and massage creams. At lower concentrations it adds body, consistency and gloss to lotions, body creams, day creams, night creams, and sun care formulations and moisturizers.

In addition to being an all-natural product, Akogel is more permeable and less occlusive than petrolatum, for better absorption and increased moisturization of the skin. It has a semi-solid consistency, high oxidation and temperature stability and has a very low odor and color. It can be used alone or in combination with triglyceride oils, esters and natural waxes. Akogel can be used in any emulsifier system developed for vegetable oils and other polar oils.

Arthur Hein, Vice President of Jarchem's Specialty Chemical Division, says, "Petrolatum has been traditionally used to add body and improve consistency in skincare formulations. But with the trend in skincare being all-natural, Akogel is a product that meets the requirements of the industry. Akogel, made of hydrogenated, food grade vegetable oil, has a viscosity and consistency similar to petrolatum, is excellent for improving the texture and adding body to skincare emulsions. And unlike petrolatum, Akogel delivers the added benefit of improving the moisturizing effect of skincare products."