Levigating

Levigating refers to the process of grinding a substance into a fine powder, often with the aid of a liquid. This technique is particularly used in pharmacy, cosmetics, and art to produce smooth, uniform mixtures of pigments, drugs, or other solid materials. The process typically involves using a mortar and pestle or a similar tool to crush and disperse the particles within a liquid vehicle, creating a stable suspension or paste. Levigation aims to reduce particle size, improve the texture, and enhance the even distribution of solids within a mixture for optimal application or effect. Thorough levigation ensures that the final product possesses the desired consistency and properties.

Levigating meaning with examples

• The pharmacist spent hours levigating the active ingredient with a special ointment base to ensure the even distribution of the medication throughout the cream, allowing for consistent dosage and absorption. The smooth texture was crucial for patient comfort and effectiveness.
• In preparation for the artist's masterpiece, the pigment was meticulously levigated with oil, yielding a vibrant and fluid paint that adhered beautifully to the canvas and allowed for seamless blending of colors.
• The cosmetic chemist carefully levigated the mineral pigments with a dispersing agent, ensuring that the foundation makeup had a flawless, streak-free application and a luxurious feel on the skin, achieving a perfect complexion.
• The laboratory technician meticulously levigated the chemical compounds with a solvent to ensure they were properly suspended, enabling precise chemical reactions and preventing any clumps or inconsistencies in the experimental results, providing accurate data.