Formula Girls: Recent Episodes
Formula Girls
This podcast highlights various formulations that have been created in our labs at Colonial Chemical. Hosted by Christine Anderson and Molly McEnery.
Megan, Molly and Christine dive into this minimal, eco-conscious conditioner bar featuring Cola®Lac SLB. Molly explains how this solid-format bar delivers rich conditioning and smooth comb-through without excess packaging or water. Christine shares her firsthand experience testing the bar and loving the results!
Megan and Molly discuss this sulfate-free waterless shampoo for quick cleanups and on-the-go touchups for your favorite pet. Molly discusses this biobased, dense-foaming shampoo that works in both pump-foamer and spray bottle. Includes some conditioning and anti-microbial properties. Megan has field-tested this formulation on her dog, Chata with excellent results!
Megan, Molly, Christine and Jim the Producer celebrate 100 podcasts together by reminiscing their favorite formulations, putting some general formulating questions before Molly and thinking back about how this all started. This is a special extended version that offers some interesting details about how formulating works in a chemical company R&D lab.
Megan and Molly talk about this gentle, plant-based pet conditioner formulation that is simply prepared with a combination of nourishing coconut oil and a ready-to-use conditioner concentrate, Cola®Lac SLB.Megan talks about how shiny the conditioner left her dog's coat and that she wants to try it on her cat - who used to enjoy water but has become disinclined with being wet.
Molly and Megan talk about this high-biobased sudsy pet shampoo made from plant-based ingredients and specially designed with mildness in mind. pH balanced for your pet's skin, this cold-mix formulation builds a rich lather to clean a variety of coats. This formulation was field-tested at a local animal shelter (see our website for more details)!
Molly and Megan talk about Colonial's very own Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse formulation that cleanses and conditions without stripping away natural oils. Megan talks about her own very personal experience with this product and Molly does a deep dive into how it all comes together. Spoiler Listen to the end to hear about what kind of apples are used in this hair rinse!
Molly and Megan talk curls! And how to hydrate and strengthen curls without weighing them down by using this new palm-free, deep-conditioning hair mask. Molly goes deep to discuss how Colonial's products smooth and detangle, improve the feel and gloss, and reduce breakage. Megan (and other users) testifies it works for her!
Molly and Megan talk about making a sulfate-free dry tooth powder with Suga®Nate 160 Dry for cleansing with exceptionally low irritation potential and neutral flavor profile. Molly includes a lot of useful information about typical foaming, the procedure for including flavor and safety testing that's been done with the dry surfactant. Megan describes her experience using a tooth powder for the first time and discovers an unusual side benefit to brushing with this formulation.
Molly and Megan describe this plant-based, purifying shampoo designed to free hair of built-up product residue and pollutants without over-drying. Non-irritating ingredients build a rich lather that effectively removes impurities. Molly goes into useful detail about building a foaming, viscous formula with sulfate-free properties. Megan talks about good hair days that follow purifying shampoo washes. Also good for deep scalp cleansing!
Molly and Megan talk about an easy-to-process pearled body wash that highlights safe, plant-based ingredients and effectively removes dirt, sweat, and excess oil without the use of harsh sulfates. Molly passes along some very helpful tips of formulating with these liquid blends including building viscosity and adding additional ingredients for a customized finished product. Features Suga®Det LSDG and Suga®Det EcoPearl.
Molly and Megan discuss this sulfate-free toothpaste featuring Suga®Nate 160NC for cleansing, foaming, low irritation and neutral flavor. Molly gives a deep dive into how these tested ingredients work together to produce a pleasing, next-generation toothpaste.
Megan and Molly discuss how a little can go a long way and help reduce plastic along the way too. This formulation features plant-based, sulfate-free ingredients and is easily made with a cold process. Molly talks solids and ways to avoid bringing in water - helping to make this shampoo even more concentrated - and still keep typical viscosity for a shampoo.
Molly and Megan talk about this no-salt-added, foamy shampoo formulation that's been carbon tested at 90%! Using Cola®Det COCOandPoly Suga®Quat TM8610P, it provides rich lather with light conditioning. Molly describes how hemp-based Cola®Teric HBS helps to boost viscosity and Megan talks about her passion for Pomegranate.
Megan and Molly discuss this highly biobased face wash, designed with gentle, non-drying ingredients and easily made with a cold process. Both agree this formulation has a great fragrance and doesn't leave you tight-skinned. Features ultra-mild sulfate-free Suga®Citrate L1C, foam-boosting Suga®Det LSDG, and skin-conditioning Cola®Lipid C.
Molly and Christine discuss this two-phase conditioner that's loaded up with nourishing oils, a palm-free conditioning aid and Quaternium-80 for silky locks and enhanced shine. Doesn't weigh down hair or make it greasy and features an all-new nature-scented fragrance! Also great for coarser or curly hair.
Molly and Christine talk about this plant-based balm that features detoxifying kaolin clay and moisturizing butters to melt away makeup, dirt, sunscreen, and anything else when you're feeling lazy. This oil-based alternative cleanser comes as a solid and doesn't strip the skin.
Christine and Molly talk about this detoxifying black lava sea salt and fresh sugar scrub using low-irritation, sulfate-free ingredients. The formulation creates a foamy lather that allows for an easy, clean rinse-off. Molly and Christine discuss personal dislikes for scrub applicators.
Molly and Christine set aside the bottle and head to the bar to talk about this quat-free, eco-conscious conditioner that leaves hair soft, bouncy and doesn't "glob up" like others. Features palm-free ingredients and doesn't require a bottle. Molly personally recommends this bar from frequent use.
Molly and Christine discuss a new mask formulation that comes in powdered form, mixed easily and water and creates a mild foam when rinsed off. This episode also is featured here in video on YouTube.
Christine and Molly talk about a highly-concentrated hand wash formulated with ultra-mild, plant-based ingredients for use in refillable bottles, allowing for reduced plastic waste. Christine recites the longest INCI list in the history of podcasts and Molly gives a hint about more formulations to come!
Molly and Christine talk about this PEG-Free, Sulfate-Free foaming oil face wash that transforms into a creamy milk with water. Gentle foam lifts away dirt without stripping skin and leaves it silky smooth. Molly discusses how oil cleaners use "like dissolves like" and Christine throws in a great suggestion for use.
Christine and Molly talk about this sulfate-free AHA facial cleanser that gently removes dead skin without harsh abrasives. Molly discusses the higher biobased content in this cold-mix formulation that foams, thickens easily and is ready-to-go in a pump bottle.
Christine and Molly talk about an indulgent, bubbly bath bar that's more than just a fizzy color show. Sulfate-free surfactants used to make foam along with the inclusion of both Epsom and Himalayan Pink Salt - and doesn't leave a slick oily ring around the tub!
Christine and Molly discuss a calming lavender face wash made with safe, mild, and effective ingredients to give you a clean slate. Featured ingredients include Cola®Det EQ-18 and Cola®Teric OAB for a sulfate-free, economical cold-mix formulation. Molly goes into detail about how fragrances can affect viscosity.
Molly and Christine talk about getting rid of unwanted odor in hair (both human and pet) with this formulation featuring a gentle, creamy lather. This is not a formulation packed with fragrances to mask any malodors - it features Soyethyl Morpholinium Ethosulfate to neutralize specific organic molecules and remove bad smells. Podcast mascot Chief approved!
Christine and Molly discuss a new sulfate-free formulation that brings back an older product for boosting viscosity response in an easy, cold-mix process. Includes Cola®Moist 200 for long-lasting moisturization and ultra-mild ingredients that refresh the skin. Clear grapefruit-scented body wash for everyday use with a nice after-feel.
Molly and Christine discuss all the benefits of this detoxifying black lava sea salt and fresh sugar granule scalp scrub for soothing skin, nourishing roots and promoting healthy hair growth. Molly explains why she utilizes dry ingredients, the importance of Colonial Monolaurin MB in the formulation, and options formulators have for using RSPO-approved materials. Christine gives some application tips.
Molly and Christine talk about the latest sulfate-free body gel that leaves skin clean, hydrated, and lightly scented with a fresh invigorating citrus aroma. Features ultra-mild Suga®Citrate L1C, and Cola®Teric CHGL and Cola®Teric CBS combine for a rich foamy lather to effectively clean the skin without the use of harsh sulfates. Cola®Moist 200 provides continuous hydration even after washing off.
Christine and Molly discuss this easy-to-assemble blend-based economy-priced shampoo that features DEA-free ingredients for both cleansing and conditioning. Uses high-foaming surfactant blends that go together quickly. Molly details how the conditioning works on the hair using the higher molecular weight cationic guar. Pearled appearance!
Molly and Christine talk about this all-new sulfate-free daily face wash designed with safe, mild ingredients. Featured products include plant-based ingredients to create a gentle lather that effectively lifts away dirt and oils. Also featured are skin-conditioning and moisture-locking products to leave skin feeling healthy, not tight or dry. Molly describes her successful field test in Arizona. Floria makes a surprise visit.
Molly and Christine jump into a brand new product, Suga®Citrate L1C, with this all-new formulation that offers safe, mild, plant-based ingredients to create a gentle, sulfate-free, silicone-free shampoo that effectively washes away dirt and oils. Molly explains coacervation and what Zein score means. Christine and Molly try their hands at drum rolling.
Molly and Christine talk about men - namely their beards - and this useful, carefully crafted sulfate and betaine-free formulation that's tough on coarse facial hair but gentle on the skin underneath. The formulation features a combination of several popular and effective surfactants mild enough for daily use. Both ponder the not-too-fruity fragrance of "Artistic Man." Formulation here.
Molly and Christine talk about cushiony, pillowy, soft, dense foam in this simple but effective formulation for hand wash in a foamer. Mild, high-foaming surfactants allow for frequent hand washes without excessive dryness. Molly mentions that antibacterial quats can be added for an active ingredient claim.
Christine and Molly talk about a foaming cream cleanser that's easy to formulate in a cold-mix process. Features eco-friendly ingredients for mild cleansing and a luxurious pearled appearance that won't require a lot of salt to build viscosity.
Molly and Christine talk about this 100% plant-based cleanser that generates a gentle but dense lather that lifts dirt and oil without irritation. It incorporates several surfactants and essential oils of your choice, all building on 100% plant-based ingredients. Molly talks about viscosity building tricks, and both make use of canny hand gestures to describe packaging.
Molly and Christine talk about this very mild daily facial cleanser that won't hurt your skin and leaves skin feeling hydrated. Sulfate-free formulation with two favorite ingredients, easy to put together, cold-mixable. Molly talks about how to get more viscosity if needed, and how ColaMoist 200 gives long-lasting moisturization.
Christine and Molly talk about a natural sunscreen utilizing physical blockers, 100% natural moisturizing, non-whitening and features broad UVA and UVB protection. Best of all, it just feels good on the skin so sun lovers are likely to use it more often. Environmentally safe and easy to put together.
Molly and Christine talk about body odor - getting rid of it - with an all-natural deodorant featuring Colonial Monolaurin MB for long-lasting odor protection and Cola®Mulse 3GO for a creamy formula that glides on smooth and soothes sensitive underarms. In addition to powerful performance, this formula is free of aluminum, baking soda, preservatives, and dyes. Molly tried it out herself recently in a warm, indoor setting and wishes more had done the same.
Molly and Christine throw some love on Suga®Nate 100NC, talk about suspending jojoba beads, what aloe vera brings to the mix and many ways to customize this sulfate-free formulation into what you want.
Molly and Christine talk about an all-new product, Cola®Det COCO, a ready-to-use blend that provides high foam with a creamy lather. Molly talks about consumer hesitation to work with sulfates, although this one is less drying and milder - and she really likes the feel of it.
Molly and Christine talk about this very basic conditioner that features a product that Molly prefers, Colonial S18TP, a vegetable-derived ingredient. This is a starting formulation that gives anyone an opportunity to build an effective, cost-efficient hair conditioner like you'd find on shelves everywhere.
Christine and Molly interview John Baxter about an easy, high-performance and very green cleaning formulation featuring Suga®Boost 050. It's gentle enough for skin but powerful enough for removing food soils and other proteins. John describes how it goes together, some ideas about thickeners and where it works well.
Molly and Christine discuss this easy, cold-process formulation that leaves hands moist and nourished, especially after a hard day of frequent hand washing and disinfecting. Features a pearled finish and light fragrance.
Molly and Christine talk about a great moisturizer formulation that works great as a lightweight body lotion in the summer months or as a face cream year-round. Molly describes the small oil phase that's great for glide and skin feel and options to make the formulation even more natural. Christine reiterates her aversion to lotions.
Christine and Molly talk about a leave-on conditioner for dogs that doesn't require water - simply apply to coat and comb through. Great in direct spray or mousse form, excellent on sensitive skin as well as the coat. pH balanced for dogs, nourishes and moisturizes your dog’s coat and skin between washes.
Note: No animal testing was used during development - Chief is NOT just a dog.
Link to Formulation #7007 here.
Molly and Christine discuss what can be used for antimicrobial claims, how to develop a hand soap formulation that doesn't dry your skin with excessive washing and the benefits of using Cola®Liquid SCMPA. Chief makes a last second entrance.
Formulation #4038 here.
Molly and Christine talk about natural hair conditioning, how to get moisture-locking properties in your formulation, how to measure it accurately with a DiaStron and what each of the ingredients brings to the final product. Also, a tip of another product that may be substituted.
Christine and Molly talk about this very effective yet gentle hand soap formulation that both cleans and soothes the skin. Peach fragrance is added to this low-odor combination, with some options for using unpreserved products for formulator flexibility. Molly discusses tinting possibilities based on her recollection of James and the Giant Peach to Christine's intense disapproval.
Christine and Molly talk about the two emulsifiers combined in this formulation to give it an elegant, silky rub-out with a creamy texture. Molly gives a very in-depth explanation of what HLB means. Formulation includes Cola®Mulse 3GO, a new product just launched from Colonial.
Molly and Christine talk about saving your hair from blowers in a conditioning and smoothing foam formulation that protects hair against heat and breakage, giving your hair a healthy and shiny look. Molly talks about cationic things and shea butter claims. Christine offers application advice.
Christine and Molly share birthday wishes while talking about this gentle,
naturally-based body wash formulation that leaves skin feeling clean without excessive drying or irritation from harsh sulfates. Includes Molly's favorite ingredient trio plus a fragrance emulsifier.
Molly and Christine talk about this purifying shampoo that deeply cleanses to free hair of product and pollutant buildup without over-drying. Molly briefly explains regulatory requirements for China-compliant formulations and what conditioning is needed for more vibrant, healthy-looking hair. This formulation offers a clean slate with fresh, apple fragrance.
Molly and Christine talk about this 2-in-1 formulation that builds thick, creamy foam, conditions without building up and is betaine-free, sulfate-free, DEA-free, PEG-free, and no Prop 65 warnings. Christine talks about how folks dislike silicones, Molly describes the formulation properties, and both agree that this is mostly a dude product because men are lazy when it comes to hair care.
NOTE: This is Molly's FAVORITE. Christine and Molly work up a short and sweet formulation that cleans and exfoliates with powdered Cola®Det EQ-154, Colonial Monolaurin MB and natural sugar. This scrub formulation actually cleanses without feeling sticky, soothes the skin with mild, low-irritation ingredients. Molly explains what Zemea® does. Christine makes a joke.
Molly and Christine talk about this all-in-one facial cream that moisturizes, smoothes, and protects your skin with broad spectrum mineral based SPF 15 protection. Molly also talks about all the minerals, when to use D6 and why there's corn starch in the formulation.
Christine and Molly talk about this sulfate-free purifying shampoo that will free hair of residue and build-up from pollution and other gross-out environmental insults - all while using antioxidants to help protect hair. Loaded with lots of all-natural ingredients.
Christine and Molly talk about an eco-conscious, full-hipster no-rinse body wash that even an old guy will love. Features very mild ingredients, alcohol-free, leaves your skin feeling fresh and odor-free. Great for cleaning while camping, hanging out saving water, or tending to someone in a nursing home.
Molly and Taryn talk about creating a signature scent around your home, about all-natural room fresheners, the many benefits of Poly Suga®Mulse D9, and sometimes girly fragrances are confused with kitcheny.
Molly and Taryn talk about soothing your scalp and hair - right down to the roots - using a mild, gentle scalp treatment with long-lasting conditioning and moisturization. Includes sustainable, non-irritating ingredients.
Molly and Christine put the bottle away and talk about this eco-conscious shampoo bar formulation that's pH-balanced and simply prepared with a hot-pour process for gentle cleansing. Easy-to-work-with ingredients that also feature re-fatting properties.
Molly and Christine talk about an oil-based face cleanser that removes waterproof makeup and transforms into a creamy milk with water, how re-fatting agents replenish moisture in the skin and hair, how "like dissolves like," and a chemical name throw-down.
Christine and Molly bring back an old product with recently renewed interest in unconventional uses, how to put it together in phases that work with conventional mineral oil, and a fun fact of how much was sold in 2018.
Molly and Christine talk about this hot-pour, eco-conscious shampoo bar that's pH balanced, builds rich lather and locks in moisture. No bottles or plastic wrappers needed!
Christine and Molly discuss this very natural, castile soap body wash formulated with Cola®Det OKC-40 that may be presented as being “made with organic oils,” that it's got some thickener in it, why certain consumers like castile soaps these days and why lavender oil shows up in so many formulations.
Molly and Christine talk about this natural, alcohol-free, aluminum-free deodorant for safe, long-lasting odor protection, ingredients that can work as well as aluminum (and not as scary), and that some people smell more than others (not pointing anyone out).
Molly and Christine talk about this dense, creamy, foaming and très luxurious cleanser. Includes many natural, low-irritation ingredients. Gentle enough for everyday use, Prop 65 worry-free - and won't get crusty around the spout thingy.
Molly, Christine, and Chief (mascot retriever) introduce an all-new formulation for cleaning makeup brushes and sponges with gentle, sustainable ingredients that lift away oily makeup and residue buildup, leaving brushes clean and soft. Also non-drying so make-up sponges won’t deteriorate!
In this episode, Molly and Christine focus on Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer (Poly Suga®Mulse D9) and all of its benefits to solubilizing organic and synthetic essential oils in formulation.
Christine and Molly discuss this classic foaming clay mask, mild for skin with humectant qualities. Leave it on for a while or use it daily, rinses easily in a lather without leaving clay on your face. Added peppermint oil leaves skin feeling all tingly.
Molly and Christine discuss this new sulfate-free formulation, building on a familiar platform that includes a new sultaine made with hemp seed oil. Builds nice foam, hydrates the skin and gently cleanses - and sports a cool, trendy label!
Bubbles, bubbles!! Molly and Christine discuss this tear-free, easy-to-produce kid's bubble bath that builds thick, long-lasting foam and won't leave a nasty residue in the tub. Made from a very short list of Prop 65-free ingredients!
Christine and Molly welcome Dennis Abbeduto to deep dive into the multiple advantages of using sultaines as betaine replacements in personal care formulations. This is one to bookmark!
Christine and Molly talk about a bubble bath bomb that actually cleans, dissolves in water and doesn't leave a greasy ring around the tub. Made from sulfate-free, bio-based ingredients with very low irritation. Not just another fizzy ball of baking soda!
Molly and Christine discuss this lightweight shampoo formulation that builds volume and moisture, doesn't leave behind residue, has no Prop 65 concerns, and easily builds foam - all while using mild, sulfate-free ingredients.
Molly and Christine explain how a "waterless" pet shampoo really works, that it's great for cats too, the right pH balance necessary for least irritation, and some advice about fragrances.
Molly and Christine talk about this glamorous, antibacterial hand soap, made without Betaines, Triclosan or DEA, that also acts as a skin conditioner. Works in a pump foamer, easy to put together with PEG-150 Distearate. Chief gets a treat and everyone goes home.
Molly and Christine talk about patting dry and a lotion that doesn't feel sticky later - kinda like a conditioner for your skin - that traps water and continues to add water to your skin throughout the day.
Christine and Molly invite John to talk about his beard, whether he shapes it or not, the difference between balms and oils and why a mild beard formulation is beneficial, Christine tries "cupuaçu" twice and Molly includes something special about Cola®Moist 200 in this formulation.
Christine and Molly discuss this easy, aqueous deodorizing spray formulation featuring Cola®Quat SMEand Poly Suga®Mulse D9 in both a fragrance-free and lightly scented version. Also recent gross-out panel test results.
Molly and Christine talk about an oldie-but-goodie, made from a classic combination of three favorite ingredients that make a wonderful, natural body wash free of everything - except foam.
Christine and Molly discuss this mild, concentrated shampoo bar - rich with antioxidant benefits, long-lasting cleansing and light conditioning. It's similar to other handmade cosmetic bars currently found in the market. Includes Cola®Lipid GS, derived from grapeseed oil.
Molly and Christine talk about naturally-derived ingredients, salicylic acid, the difference between BHA and AHA cleansers, why being mild is so important and how this formulation gives your skin the right "glow."
Christine and Molly talk about Potassium Cocoate, organic oils, different certifications for USDA Organic, washing your teeth, and the difference between real soap and traditional synthetic detergents.
Molly and Christine talk about a formulation that'll bring back curls and keep them looking great without quats or silicones. Safe, mild ingredients in a pumpable styling hair foam.
Molly and Christine talk about this NOT PINK grapefruit scented body scrub with natural gentle Jojoba beads will leave your skin feeling smooth and soft. A perfect example of building foam with sultaines and Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate and Suga®Nate 160NC.
Christine and Molly talk about a deep conditioning hair mask that nourishes and soothes your hair and scalp. Locks in moisture, enhances smoothness and protects against pollution - all very trendy.
Christine and Molly talk about this economical, sulfate-free, amide-free, palm-free, Prop-65-free, stringy-free, mild and luxurious liquid gel that's cold mixable. Features Colonial AOS-40 UP and both Cola®Teric CBS and HBS.
Christine and Molly talk about the wipe solution needed for eliminating unwanted odors, light conditioning, and the feeling of being clean and fresh all day - especially when a shower isn't handy.
Molly and Christine talk about dispersing salt in water, adding gum, and getting that going to the beach and fresh out of bed look in a very natural formulation.
Molly and Christine talk about a silicone-free, mild baby lotion, emulsions, and silky smoothness. This formulation is nourishing and irritant free with a hint of lavender for calming even the fussiest of babies (and adults).
Molly and Christine talk about an easy, sulfate-free hydrating body wash that isn't tacky-feeling; flexibility for formulators; Cola®Moist 200 has super-powers over glycerin; Christine says "corneometer."
Molly and Christine leave the bottle behind and raise their eco-consciousness while introducing a new Conditioner Bar featuring Colonial's easy-to-use conditioning concentrate, Cola®Quat CBC.
Christine's favorite - the Antioxidant Purifying Shampoo - now includes Colonial's newest sultaine, Cola®Teric CHGL. Molly reveals the go-to technique for working with sulfate-free Suga®Nate 160NC for making super-green formulations.
Molly and Christine talk about jiggly, wiggly soap for kids in fun shapes and includes sustainably grown and harvested Babassu oil along with foam-rich and all-natural Suga®Nate 100NC.
Christine and Molly cover what BB means, all the natural ingredients used in the formulation, what's all-in-one, and maybe sometimes a bottle isn't what you really need.
Molly and Christine talk about busy days, the beach, when you don't feel like washing your hair, and yeah, odor neutralizing.
Molly and Christine talk about a popular salt scrub formulation that foams, cleanses, exfoliates, and leaves your skin glowing! Made with trendy Himalayan pink salt.
Molly and Christine talk about one of Colonial's favorite personal care formulations for gently cleansing skin of makeup; about water and oil-loving micelles; how free it is of everything (and meets EcoCert standards); and never say non-comedogenic.
Molly and Christine talk about the benefits of this lightweight, buildable silicone-free moisturizer, naturally-derived emulsification and repeat "body butter."
Christine and Molly talk about the meaning of micellar, Poly Suga®Quat S1210P, Cola®Quat PDQ, and fun times with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.
Molly and Christine talk about this PEG-free makeup remover, Poly®Suga Mulse D9, xanthan gum and if indie brands ever stop being indie.