Adjusting Cream Texture to be More Liquid with Electrolytes

Yes, it is possible to make an existing thick cream more liquid like a lotion. Generally, this is done by adding certain substances that are electrolytes, which are often water-soluble. Adding these substances helps adjust the structure of the cream to make it more fluid.

Based on the search information and expert advice, substances that can be used for this purpose include:

• Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids: A group of amino acids that help strengthen the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF), keeping the skin moisturized, soft, and aiding in wound healing.
• Sodium PCA 50%: A natural component of the skin's NMF, helping to balance and moisturize the skin, preventing moisture loss and dryness.
• Zinc PCA: Helps reduce skin oiliness, accelerates wound healing (e.g., acne scars), stimulates collagen production, and has properties to help reduce acne.
• Azelaic Acid (Liquid Azelaic™): Helps brighten skin, reduce dark spots, reduce skin oiliness, control sebum production, and reduce acne.

Method for adjusting cream texture:
Choose the substance you want to add based on the additional properties desired (e.g., focusing on moisturizing, oil control, or acne reduction). Then, gradually add a small amount of the chosen substance into the cream. Use a clean spatula or tool to mix thoroughly. Observe the consistency. If it's not liquid enough, you can add a little more at a time and continue mixing. It is very important not to add too much at once, as adding too much can cause the cream to separate.

Effect on efficacy and shelf life:
Adding these substances to an existing cream will introduce the properties of the added substance, which may change the overall efficacy of the cream depending on the substance and amount used (e.g., if Zinc PCA is added, the cream will gain oil-controlling properties).

Regarding shelf life, modifying finished products yourself at home carries a risk of making the product less stable and potentially shortening its shelf life. This is especially true if the substance is added in an inappropriate amount, causing the cream to separate, or if the tools used are not clean enough, which can lead to contamination. Therefore, you should only modify a small amount that you plan to use in the near future and observe the changes in the cream's texture. If the cream separates, or its color, smell, or appearance changes, you should stop using it.