Adjusting a Gel Formula That Separates Overnight and Feels Sticky

Asked by: kaka_barkar On: March 23, 2019 Product Type: Cosmetics Answered

Question

Could I ask about the formula?
Please help adjust the formula,
and check the mixing steps.

Desired formula should be:

  • glossy face
  • gentle
  • soft, moisturized skin
  • whitening
  • clear face
  • reduce oiliness on the face

But the issues found:

  • after making it, it separates after resting for 1 night
  • sticky and tacky

Formula:

  1. Hyaluronic Acid (่japan) 1%
  2. Pro polimer (Gel Maker) o.5%
  3. Vitamin B3 5%
  4. Glycerin 99.5% 4%
  5. GlucoBright 4%
  6. Vitamin B5 4.5kg
  7. Aloe Vera Extract 3%
  8. Phenoxyethanol 1%
  9. Silver Glitter Mica 0.5%
  10. Color 0.02%
  11. Fragrance0.48%
  12. Water 77.5%

Mixing steps:

  1. Create the gel texture first
  2. Add hya and Glycerin
  3. Add the remaining ingredients
  4. Finally follow with 9+10+11+8

Answer

Formula Adjustment and Mixing Steps for Your Serum

Based on your current formula and the issues you're experiencing with separation and stickiness, here are some suggestions to adjust your formula and mixing steps to achieve a stable, non-sticky serum with your desired skin benefits.

Your formula includes excellent ingredients for moisturizing, whitening, and oil control. The separation and stickiness are likely due to the gelling agent concentration and the total amount of humectants.

Proposed Revised Formula:

Here is a suggested adjustment to your formula. Please note that the total percentage should ideally be 100%. Assuming your Vitamin B5 is 4.5% (not 4.5kg), the original formula was slightly over 100%. The revised formula below adjusts the water percentage to compensate and increases the gelling agent while slightly reducing glycerin to help with stickiness.

  • Hyaluronic Acid (japan) 1%
  • Pro polymer (Gel Maker) 0.8% (Increased from 0.5% for improved stability)
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) 5%
  • Glycerin 2% (Reduced from 4% to help minimize stickiness)
  • GlucoBright 4%
  • Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) 4.5%
  • Aloe Vera Extract 3%
  • Phenoxyethanol 1%
  • Silver Glitter Mica 0.5%
  • Color 0.02%
  • Fragrance 0.48%
  • Water q.s. to 100% (Approximately 77.2% - adjust based on precise weights of other ingredients)

Proposed Revised Mixing Steps:

The order and method of mixing are crucial for gel formulations, especially when dealing with ingredients that can affect viscosity or stability.

  1. Prepare the Gel Base: Disperse the Pro polymer in the water. Mix thoroughly. If your specific Pro polymer requires neutralization to thicken, slowly add your neutralizing agent (such as a pre-made NaOH solution) while mixing until the gel fully forms and is smooth and clear. Ensure the gel base is completely homogeneous before proceeding.
  2. Add Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin to the gel base. Mix until fully dissolved and incorporated.
  3. Add Vitamin B3, GlucoBright, Vitamin B5, and Aloe Vera Extract. Mix until the mixture is uniform.
  4. Add Phenoxyethanol, Color, Fragrance, and Silver Glitter Mica. Mix until all components are evenly dispersed throughout the gel.

Explanation of Changes:

  • Increased Pro polymer: A slightly higher concentration of the gelling agent will create a stronger and more stable gel structure. This helps prevent the formula from separating over time and assists in keeping the Mica particles evenly suspended.
  • Reduced Glycerin: Glycerin is a powerful humectant, but high concentrations can contribute to a sticky feel. Slightly reducing its amount while keeping other moisturizers should help improve the skin feel without significantly compromising hydration.
  • Refined Mixing Process: Ensuring the gel base is properly formed before adding other ingredients, especially those that might contain electrolytes or affect viscosity, is key to preventing destabilization and separation.

These adjustments aim to improve the stability and texture of your serum while retaining the beneficial properties of the active ingredients for glowing, soft, moisturized, bright, clear, and less oily skin.

Answer Update
Updated Review: May 2026

This section was added after reviewing the original answer against current product availability and formulation knowledge at the stated point in time.

As of 2026-05-17, the information regarding the products in this formulation has been reviewed and updated for accuracy.

  • Hyaluronic Acid: The specific 'Hyaluronic Acid (japan)' mentioned is now best represented by our current Double Hyaluron Liquid, which combines standard and nano-sized molecules for comprehensive hydration.
  • Pro Polymer (Gel Maker): This gelling agent remains available. For optimal stability in gel serums, refer to the current product specifications for precise usage rates and mixing instructions.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide): Our Safe-B3™ offers high-purity niacinamide, beneficial for brightening, reducing redness, improving skin texture, and controlling oil. It can be used at concentrations up to 10% without causing irritation.
  • Glycerin: Glycerin (USP/Food Grade) is still a key humectant. Its concentration should be balanced to achieve desired moisture levels without creating a sticky feel.
  • GlucoBright: GlucoBright™ (Acetyl Glucosamine) is available and works synergistically with Niacinamide to help reduce hyperpigmentation and support natural hyaluronic acid production.
  • Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): Panthenol (Vitamin B5, DL-Panthenol, Powder) is confirmed as available. It acts as a powerful humectant and helps to soothe and repair the skin barrier.
  • Aloe Vera Extract: Aloe Vera Extract (extraction ratio 10:1 FullAssay™) is available and provides soothing and moisturizing benefits.
  • Phenoxyethanol: Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure) remains a safe, paraben-free preservative option for water-based formulations.