Customer wants to formulate hair serum and shampoo using Minoxil Aqua, targeting pH 6-7, for batch sizes of 100-500 ml.
Question
Customer wants to formulate hair serum and shampoo using Minoxil Aqua, targeting pH 6-7, for batch sizes of 100-500 ml. Please provide usage calculations and recommendations for Minoxil Aqua in these products. Additionally, explain how to calculate and incorporate Clover Flower Extract (Biochanin A 98%) as a powder into a water-based serum formula. Finally, suggest alternatives to finasteride at 0.25% concentration for hair loss prevention in these formulations, considering natural/vegan options if possible.
Answer
1. Minoxil Aqua™ (Diaminopyrimidine Oxide) Usage and Calculation
Minoxil Aqua™ (ID 31030) is a water-soluble powder containing at least 50% Diaminopyrimidine Oxide (similar to Aminexil). It is highly effective for reducing hair loss and stimulating hair growth.
Recommended Usage Rate:
The standard effective concentration for Diaminopyrimidine Oxide in leave-on hair products (serums, tonics) and rinse-off products (shampoos) is 0.5% to 2.0%.
| Concentration | 100 ml Batch (g/ml) | 500 ml Batch (g/ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5% (Maintenance) | 0.5 g | 2.5 g |
| 1.0% (Standard Efficacy) | 1.0 g | 5.0 g |
| 2.0% (Maximum Efficacy) | 2.0 g | 10.0 g |
Incorporation and pH Adjustment:
- Dissolution: Minoxil Aqua™ is water-soluble. Dissolve the calculated amount directly into the water phase of your serum or shampoo formulation.
- pH Management: The raw material has a very low pH (approx. 2-3). Since the target pH for the final product is pH 6-7, the addition of Minoxil Aqua™ will significantly lower the final pH.
- Adjustment: After all ingredients are mixed, use a pH adjuster (e.g., 10% Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) solution or Triethanolamine) to slowly raise the final product pH to the target range of pH 6.0-7.0. This range is optimal for scalp comfort and product stability.
2. Clover Flower Extract (Biochanin A 98%) Calculation and Incorporation
Biochanin A is a potent isoflavone often used to inhibit 5-alpha reductase and reduce inflammation in the hair follicle.
Recommended Usage Rate:
For a high-purity powder (98% Biochanin A), a typical effective concentration in a finished product is 0.1% to 0.5%.
| Concentration | 100 ml Batch (g/ml) | 500 ml Batch (g/ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.1% | 0.1 g | 0.5 g |
| 0.5% | 0.5 g | 2.5 g |
Incorporation into a Water-Based Serum:
- Weighing: Accurately weigh the required amount of Biochanin A 98% powder.
- Solubility Check: Biochanin A itself has low water solubility. To ensure proper dispersion and stability in a water-based serum, it is highly recommended to pre-dissolve or pre-disperse the powder in a small amount of a suitable solvent/humectant first.
- Recommended Solvents: Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, or Glycerin. Use a ratio of about 5-10 parts solvent to 1 part powder.
- Mixing: Add the pre-dissolved/dispersed solution to the main water phase of the serum. Ensure the mixture is fully homogenized before proceeding to the final steps (e.g., adding thickeners or adjusting pH).
3. Natural/Vegan Alternatives to Finasteride (0.25%)
Finasteride is a synthetic 5-alpha reductase (5-AR) inhibitor. The goal is to find natural/vegan ingredients that block the conversion of testosterone to DHT.
Here are the best natural alternatives, focusing on ingredients that can be used effectively at or around the 0.25% concentration:
| Alternative Ingredient | Recommended Concentration | Mechanism & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Saw Palmetto Extract (Standardized) | 0.25% - 1.0% | A well-documented natural 5-AR inhibitor. Using a standardized extract at 0.25% is a good starting point for efficacy. |
| Green Tea Extract (Standardized EGCG) | 0.25% - 1.0% | Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a potent antioxidant and 5-AR inhibitor. It works synergistically with other hair growth actives. |
| Rosemary Essential Oil | 0.5% - 1.0% | Studies show it can be as effective as 2% Minoxidil for hair growth. It works by improving circulation and having anti-androgenic properties. (Note: 0.25% is too low for an essential oil; 0.5% is the minimum effective dose). |
| Pumpkin Seed Oil | 1.0% - 5.0% | Contains phytosterols that inhibit 5-AR. While 0.25% is too low for the oil, it is an excellent addition at higher concentrations. |
Recommendation for 0.25%:
For a direct replacement at the specified concentration, Standardized Saw Palmetto Extract or Standardized Green Tea Extract (EGCG) are the most suitable natural/vegan options that directly target the 5-AR pathway. You should use the supplier's recommended usage rate for the specific extract you purchase, as standardization varies.
