What is typically used to make cream dense in formulation?

In formulation, thickeners are substances that increase the viscosity of a product, making it denser. They help create a creamier texture, which is especially desirable in skincare and cosmetic formulations. Thickeners can include various agents like gums, starches, and other polymers that provide both stability and the desired thickness to creams and lotions.

While emulsifiers are essential for stabilizing mixtures of oil and water by preventing them from separating, and humectants help retain moisture by drawing water into the skin, thickeners specifically address the need for a denser product. Surfactants, on the other hand, are primarily used to reduce surface tension and aid in spreading or cleansing, rather than contributing to density. Thus, thickeners are specifically designed to enhance texture, which is why they are the correct choice for making cream dense in formulation.