Analysis of foaming properties

Foaming property analysis involves measuring a product's ability to generate, stabilize, and maintain foam under controlled conditions. This performance is essential in the cosmetics, detergent, and hygiene sectors, where foam contributes to sensory perception, application efficiency, and end-user acceptance. Understanding the foaming behavior of a formulation allows for adjustments to the selection of surfactants, thickening agents, fragrances, and additives to optimize the user experience and long-term stability.

Methods for analyzing foaming properties

The evaluation of foaming properties is based on standardized methods or methods commonly used in the industry:

• Ross-Miles test : measures the initial height of foam and its stability over time after a controlled impact between two surfactant solutions.
• Foam height tests : determination of the volume of foam generated under standardized mechanical agitation.
• Foam stability analysis : measurement of foam drainage, coalescence or collapse time.
• Foam rheology : study of the consistency, cohesion and internal structure of foam via oscillatory or rotational rheometry.

These methods make it possible to compare different formulations, identify foam defects, validate recipe modifications, or predict product behavior under real-world usage conditions.

Matrices analyzed and industrial applications

Commonly studied matrices include: shower gels, shampoos, liquid cleansers, liquid soaps, facial foaming products, mild detergents, technical foams, surfactants, and concentrated formulations.
Foaming property analysis is particularly applicable to:

• Validation of marketing claims (rich foam, fine foam, stable foam…)
• Sensory optimization of hygiene and cosmetic products
• The development of natural or bio-based surfactants
• Quality control of production batches
• The study of the influence of pH, salts, oils, or thickening agents
• Comparison of competing formulations or internal prototypes

The value of this measurement for cosmetic formulation

Foam is not merely an aesthetic parameter: it influences the perception of cleanliness, ease of rinsing, skin softness, and product dispersion on skin or hair. Foaming tests therefore allow for fine-tuning the formula to balance performance, gentleness, and stability. They also play a key role in the development of eco-designed formulations, where traditional surfactants are replaced by natural alternatives that often produce less foam.

YesWeLab Expertise

At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a carefully selected network of specialized laboratories, most of which are certified and/or accredited (ISO 17025, COFRAC). Each request is directed to the most suitable laboratory, based on the matrices, applicable standards, and required analytical methods. Our scientific team assists you in choosing the most relevant test, interpreting the results, or comparing multiple formulations.
Since 2020, numerous manufacturers, cosmetic brands, formulators, and research and development firms have entrusted us with their analyses through our digital platform. To obtain a quote or submit a specific request, contact our team today.

Related analyses of the YesWeLab catalog

To complete the functional analysis of your cosmetic products, you can also consult:

• Apparent viscosity analysis
• Thixotropy analysis
• Viscoelasticity analysis
• Surface condition and roughness analysis
• Turbidity analysis
• Determination of SPF in vitro