Adding Witch Hazel and DMAE to Your Formula

It's understandable that you're interested in adding Witch Hazel and DMAE to your formula to help with pore tightening. Adding these ingredients is possible, but given your history of sensitive and acne-prone skin, it's crucial to proceed with caution and test carefully.

Witch Hazel

• Properties: Helps tighten pores and acts as a mild astringent.
• Products: Available in different forms, such as alcohol-free distillate or distillate with Allantoin to help reduce irritation. The version with Allantoin might be a better choice for sensitive skin.
• Usage Rate: Can be used at 10-100% in products (often used at over 50% in toners).
• Mixing Step: Should be added in the final step, after all other ingredients are mixed and the formula has cooled down below 40°C.

DMAE (SkinTight MD™ Liquid)

• Properties: Helps tighten skin, reduce wrinkles, and fight free radicals.
• Caution: DMAE can cause irritation, especially on sensitive or delicate skin. Using it at high concentrations might also feel sticky.
• Usage Rate: Recommended usage is 1-10%, typically suggested at 3%. Using more than 5% might cause irritation. If you are new to using it, start with a lower concentration.
• Mixing Step: Should be added in the final step, after all other ingredients are mixed and the formula has cooled down below 40°C.

How to Incorporate

If you want to add Witch Hazel or DMAE (or both) to your existing HA + Niacinamide + Glucosamine + Alpha-Arbutin gel formula:

1. Prepare the base gel formula (HA, Niacinamide, Glucosamine, Alpha-Arbutin) following the previously recommended steps until you have a complete and cooled gel.
2. Weigh or measure the desired amount of Witch Hazel and/or DMAE (calculate based on the total weight of your final formula).
3. Gently add the Witch Hazel and/or DMAE into the cooled gel. Stir gently until evenly incorporated.
4. Transfer to a clean container and store in the refrigerator.

Additional Recommendations for Sensitive Skin:

• It's advisable to try adding one ingredient at a time first to observe how your skin reacts. Perhaps start with Witch Hazel.
• If you choose to use DMAE, start with a low concentration (e.g., 1-2%) and monitor your skin closely.
• Using the Witch Hazel with Allantoin might help reduce the chance of irritation.
• Pay close attention to your skin. If you notice redness, itching, or increased clogged pores, you should stop using the newly added ingredient.

Customizing your own formula requires experimentation and observing the results on your skin. Enjoy the process!