Arrowroot
Arrowroot is a starchy substance extracted from the tubers of arrowroot plants.
It’s INCI name is Maranta Arundinacea Root.
Arrowroot is used in anhydrous products to help reduce the greasy/oily skin feel, and in higher concentrations it can give the entire product a powdery, dry-touch finish and contribute to thickening. However, adding too much or too little can affect the final texture and consistency of your anhydrous product.
While it is commonly used as a thickening agent in cooking, it also has benefits when incorporated into body butters and skincare products. Here are some potential benefits of using arrowroot in body butters:
1. Texture and Consistency: Arrowroot can contribute to a smooth and silky texture in body butters. It helps in achieving a creamy consistency, making the product easier to apply and spread on the skin. It can help thicken, stabilise and improve the texture and consistency of your product.
2. Absorption: Arrowroot has absorbent properties, which can help to absorb excess oil and sweat on the skin without leaving a greasy feeling. This makes it suitable for those with oily or combination skin types.
3. Matte Finish: Due to its oil-absorbing properties, arrowroot can impart a matte finish to body butters. This can be appealing for individuals who prefer skincare products that do not leave a shiny or oily residue on the skin.
4. Gentle on the Skin: Arrowroot is generally considered gentle and well-tolerated by most skin types. It is less likely to cause irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Arrowroot has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
5. Softening and Smoothing: Arrowroot powder can help soften and smooth dry or rough skin, leaving it feeling silky and hydrated.
6. Natural Alternative: For those who prefer natural ingredients in their skincare products, arrowroot provides a plant-based option for achieving certain desired properties in body butters.
7. Vegan and Gluten-Free: Arrowroot is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with specific dietary or lifestyle preferences.
8. Helps with Slip: In skincare formulations, arrowroot can contribute to the slip of the product. This means that the product glides easily on the skin, making it pleasant to apply and massage into the skin.
You can use other starches in place of Arrowroot like Corn starch, Tapioca for example. I personally use Arrowroot as this is what I have in the pantry as it is Gluten Free.
It can be used at up to 100% but I like to use it around 4% in my body butter recipes.
It's important to note that while arrowroot can offer these benefits, the overall formulation of a body butter involves a combination of various ingredients. Each ingredient plays a role in determining the final texture, feel, and effectiveness of the product.
Additionally, individual skin reactions can vary, so it's always a good idea to do a patch test when trying out new skincare products.
