Acne Spot Treatment Gel Formulation Review and Mixing Instructions

Asked by: popwdream On: July 11, 2021 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I want to make an acne spot treatment gel that works overnight. I'm unsure if the ingredients are too strong and would like to know the mixing procedure for the following formula:

Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Powder, Timed-Release) 4%
BioSulphur™ EQ 4%
Glycolic Acid (AHA) 100% Powder 2%
Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide) 4%
Mild Preserved Eco 1%
Disodium EDTA 0.2%
Reshape Gel 2%
Water 82.8%

Answer

The formula you plan to make is a relatively potent acne spot treatment gel. Combining multiple active ingredients at high percentages, such as Salicylic Acid 4%, BioSulphur 4%, and Glycolic Acid 2%, provides high efficacy for rapid results ("disappear overnight") as you intended.

However, this concentration level can potentially cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin or if used excessively or applied to the entire face. This formula is intended for use as a spot treatment only and should not be applied all over the face. It is highly recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to acne spots to see how your skin reacts.

Here is a general mixing procedure:

  1. Prepare the Water Phase: In a clean container, weigh out the Water. Add Glycolic Acid, Safe-B3 (Niacinamide), and Disodium EDTA. Stir or use a small mixer until all powder ingredients are fully dissolved in the water.
  2. Add the Gel Maker: Slowly sprinkle Reshape Gel into the water phase while stirring continuously to prevent clumping. Continue stirring until the Reshape Gel hydrates and forms a smooth, uniform gel. (You should check the specific instructions for Reshape Gel, as different gel makers may have different mixing requirements, such as temperature or hydration time).
  3. Add Actives: Once the gel is formed, add Encapsulated Salicylic Acid and BioSulphur EQ to the gel base. Stir thoroughly until both ingredients are evenly dispersed throughout the gel and the mixture is homogeneous.
  4. Add Preservative: Add Mild Preserved Eco to the mixture and stir well until fully incorporated.
  5. Check: Ensure that all ingredients are well combined, the gel texture is uniform, and there are no undissolved powders or unevenly dispersed ingredients.

Additional Precautions:

  • Accurately weigh all ingredients.
  • Use clean and sanitized equipment and containers.
  • Store the final product in a suitable container (e.g., a tube or small jar for spot treatment) and store it properly (e.g., at room temperature, away from light and heat).
  • If severe irritation occurs after use, discontinue use immediately.

This formula is designed for fast results but comes with a higher potential for irritation. Please use it with caution.