Acne Formula Peeling/Flaking Issue
Question
I have a custom acne formula from Myskin that works very well for treating acne, making pimples subside quickly. However, when applied and dried on the skin, it peels or flakes off. This makes it only usable at night, and I would like to be able to use it during the day. Is there any way to fix this issue?
The formula ordered from Myskin is:
- 20nm Silver Pure™ 1.00%
- Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Powder, Timed-Release) 3.00%
- White Egg Enzyme (Acnezyme™) 3.00%
- Phytosphingosine 1.00%
- Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC, USA) 1.80%
- Mild Preserved Eco™ (Preservative-Free) 1.00%
- Distilled Water, Sterile 81.70%
- Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) 1.50%
- Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate 1.00%
- Butylene Glycol 5.00%
Thank you.
Answer
Hello! I understand the inconvenience of the product peeling/flaking, even though its efficacy in treating acne is excellent.
This peeling issue can be caused by several factors in your formula, mainly stemming from:
- Exfoliating Ingredients: Both White Egg Enzyme (Acnezyme™) and Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Timed-Release) are ingredients that promote skin exfoliation, which can lead to the shedding of dead skin cells or cause the dried product film itself to flake. Salicylic Acid, especially at 3%, can contribute to skin peeling.
- Thickener: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a type of gelling agent that can leave a thin film on the skin when it dries. This film can also peel or flake, particularly if used at a high concentration or if the formula is not well-balanced.
- Penetration Enhancer: Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI), while effective in enhancing ingredient penetration, can sometimes contribute to faster drying of the formula and potentially affect flaking in some cases.
Suggested Solution:
Since this formula was custom-made by Myskin, the best recommendation is to consult directly with Myskin's formulation experts. They have a detailed understanding of the specific formula you ordered and can provide the most suitable advice on how to adjust it to reduce the peeling issue while maintaining its acne-treating efficacy.
Generally, adjusting a formula to reduce flaking might involve:
- Adjusting Exfoliant Concentration: If possible, consider slightly reducing the percentage of White Egg Enzyme or Salicylic Acid (keeping in mind potential impact on efficacy).
- Adjusting the Base Formulation: This might involve modifying the type or amount of the gelling agent (HPMC) or adding humectants or emollients to the formula. These ingredients can help make the product texture more flexible, preventing it from drying into a rigid film that easily flakes off the skin.
Please contact Myskin directly so their experts can advise on adjusting your specific formula.
