Differences between the many types of micro-capsules

Benefits of using micro-capsules

Different micro-capsules can be used for different effects within products. Their uses are wide and varied, such as

visual effects:

•  dynamic visual effects through the packaging due to coloured micro-capsules
• impression of delivery of an internal substance for a significant impact on the consumer – whether this be an active ingredient, fragrance or colour to the end-product 

protection: 

• using micro-capsules to protect an internal active core can be a great way of incorporating usually unstable or incompatible materials into a base product and ensuring you achieve a good bio-availability throughout its shelf life

exfoliation/cleansing:

• micro-capsules can give the visual impression of exfoliation while other ingredients in the formula provide chemical exfoliation 

improve skin feel:

• encapsulating UV filters, colourants or other texturally challenged materials to improve their skin feel and dispersion in a formulation

fragrance release:

• providing a burst of aroma when dispensed or applied

novel delivery:

• micro-capsules can be a great way of drawing attention to an active ingredient visually, and potentially also enhanced delivery on application. Either way, micro-capsules will achieve enhanced perceived efficacy of a product to a consumer 

manipulated residue:

• in many cases, no residual ‘shell’ is desirable once the internal contents have been delivered, but sometimes, a residual shimmer or colour effect may be desired from the use of micro-capsules – different materials can provide either of these effects as considered desirable by the developer.