Cooling Agent WS-23 And WS-3:What are the differences?

Cooling agents are used in many products like food, drinks, cosmetics, and medicines to give a fresh and cool feeling. WS-3 and WS-23 are two common synthetic cooling agents. They both provide a cooling effect, but they are different in their chemical structure, how they are used, and how they feel on the skin or mouth. This article will compare WS-3 and WS-23 to help manufacturers and consumers understand their special features and uses.

What is Cooling Agent WS-23？

WS-23 is a synthetic cooling agent (chemically known as 2-isopropyl-N,2,3-trimethylbutyramide). It mimics the cooling sensation of menthol by activating cold receptors but is completely odorless and flavorless. It is primarily used to add an “ice” or cooling effect to e-liquids, chewing gum, candies, and cosmetics without altering the underlying taste.

Unlike natural menthol, which has a distinct minty taste, WS-23 provides a crisp, clean cooling hit without any mint flavor.It has low volatility and is heat-stable, making it easy to blend into various food, beverage, and vape formulations.

It is suitable for high temperature processes as baking since it has a good heat resistance up to 200°C.

What is Cooling Agent WS-3？

WS-3 is a menthol derivative. But unlike menthol, WS-3 is virtually non-volatile, odorless, and tasteless. WS-3 is one of the most commonly used coolants on the market. Its cleansing, instant cooling effect has been found to primarily cool the roof of the mouth, the back of the mouth and the back of the tongue.

WS-3 offers a subtle menthol flavour, with a strong and enduring cooling sensation characterised by a slow, steady release of icy coolness and gentle notes of camphor and mint. Its cooling intensity is 1.5 times greater than that of menthol, and its effect lasts for 20 to 30 minutes.

Cooling Agent WS-23 VS. WS-3

Sensory Characteristics

The main difference between WS-3 and WS-23 lies in the way they deliver the cooling sensation:

 Cooling Agent WS-3:

• WS-3 gives a mild, smooth, and long-lasting cooling feeling.
• The cool sensation is mostly felt at the back of the throat and on the tongue.
• It works slowly, so it is good for products that need a gentle and soft cooling effect.

Cooling Agent WS-23:

• WS-23 gives a strong and quick cooling feeling.
• The cool sensation spreads evenly in the mouth and nose.
• It is perfect for products that need a powerful and clear cooling effect.

Applications

Both WS-3 and WS-23 can be used in many kinds of products. But because they are different, each one works better for certain uses:

Cooling Agent WS-3:

• WS-3 is often used in chewing gum, candies, and oral care products like toothpaste and mouthwash.
• It is good for skincare products that need a gentle cooling feeling, such as moisturizers and lotions.
• WS-3 is also used in medicines like lozenges and creams for the skin.

Cooling Agent WS-23:

• WS-23 is popular in drinks like soda, flavored water, and energy drinks because it gives a strong cooling feeling.
• It is often used in vaping liquids and e-cigarettes to create a strong cooling effect.
• WS-23 is also good for cosmetics like face mists, sunscreens, and after-sun products, where a clear cooling feeling is wanted.

Stability and Compatibility

Both Them are stable under a wide range of conditions, but there are slight differences:

Cooling Agent WS-3:

• WS-3 dissolves better in alcohol-based liquids and less in water.
• It works well with many different flavors and scents.

Cooling Agent WS-23:

• WS-2 3 dissolves better in water than WS-3, so it is good for drinks and water-based products.
• Sometimes, its flavor may not mix well with certain tastes if not balanced carefully.

Cost and Availability

The price of WS-3 and WS-23 depends on things like purity, who sells it, and how much is made:

WS-3 : Usually cheaper because it has been made for a longer time and uses well-known methods.

WS-23 : A bit more expensive because it is newer and is in high demand in some industries.

Conclusion

WS-23 and WS-3 are both popular synthetic cooling agents used in e-cigarettes, confectionery, and cosmetics. While WS-23 delivers a stronger, more immediate cooling effect on the tongue without a minty flavor, WS-3 offers a smoother, more controlled and longer-lasting throat hit with a mild menthol-like taste.

• Cooling Location: WS-23 primarily targets the front of the mouth and tongue, whereas WS-3 is felt more predominantly in the back of the mouth and throat.
• Flavor Profile: WS-23 is virtually odorless and tasteless, making it ideal for fruit or candy flavors where you do not want mint alteration. WS-3 contains a slight minty/menthol note.
• Solubility: WS-23 mixes well in both water and propylene glycol (PG), offering excellent formulation versatility.
• Sensory Impact: WS-23 provides a sharper, more aggressive “ice” blast. WS-3 provides a smoother, more rounded, and extended chill.

Both WS-3 and WS-23 are great cooling agents with their own benefits. WS-3 gives a gentle and long-lasting cooling feeling, while provides a strong and quick cooling effect. By knowing how they feel, where they work best, and how they mix with other ingredients, manufacturers can pick the right one for their products. As more people want fresh and new products, WS-3 and WS-23 will continue to be important in the cooling agents market.