What Does HLB Stand For?

HLB stands for Hydrophilic Lipophilic Balance Of Surfactants

HLB, or Hydrophilic Lipophilic Balance, is a numerical scale that quantifies the balance between the hydrophilic (water-attracting) and lipophilic (oil-attracting) properties of surfactants. This balance is crucial in determining the suitability of a surfactant for specific applications, such as emulsification, solubilization, and dispersion. A higher HLB value indicates a greater hydrophilic nature, making it more effective for stabilizing oil-in-water emulsions, while a lower HLB suggests a lipophilic character, favoring water-in-oil emulsions. Understanding HLB is essential for formulating effective products in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food.