Facial Serum Formulation Advice

You are planning to make a facial serum with the following ingredients and percentages:

1. Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate 65%
2. Aloe Vera Extract 2%
3. N-acetyl-D glucosamine (GlucoBright™) 4%
4. Vitamin B3 (Safe-B3™) 2%
5. Pro Polymer 2%
6. Water 25%

Total: 100%

You asked if this formula will be sticky and how to adjust it for a lighter, smoother texture, as well as if Aloe Vera Gel can be used instead of Aloe Vera Extract.

Addressing Stickiness and Texture

Based on your formula, it might feel sticky, and you may desire a lighter, smoother gel texture. This is likely due to the gelling agent (Pro Polymer) and the concentration of active ingredients.

To address this, here are two suggested approaches (you can use one or both):

1. Use Pro Polymer Silk: Substitute the regular Pro Polymer with Pro Polymer Silk. Pro Polymer Silk is designed to provide a smoother, less sticky feel while still effectively thickening the serum.
2. Add an Emollient or Silicone: Incorporate a small percentage of an emollient or silicone ingredient such as SiliSilk, Cyclomethicone, or PowderCream. These ingredients can improve the slip and reduce the sticky sensation, leaving the skin feeling softer and smoother.

Substituting Aloe Vera Extract with Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe Vera Extract is a concentrated form of beneficial compounds from the plant. Aloe Vera Gel, especially a pre-made product, often contains the extract along with water, thickeners, and other additives to create a gel texture.

Substituting Aloe Vera Extract with a pre-made Aloe Vera Gel product will introduce these additional ingredients into your formula, which can alter its intended consistency and the final concentration of your active ingredients. This could make it difficult to achieve the desired texture and performance of your serum.

Using the specified Aloe Vera Extract is generally recommended for formula consistency and predictability. If you consider using a form of Aloe Vera Gel, understand its composition and how it might interact with your other ingredients, particularly your chosen gelling agent. You might need to adjust the water content and carefully monitor the texture.

In conclusion, to reduce stickiness and improve texture, consider using Pro Polymer Silk or adding an emollient/silicone. For best results and consistency, use Aloe Vera Extract as specified in the formula rather than substituting with a general Aloe Vera Gel product.