Hair Serum Formulation Feedback

Based on the hair serum formula you provided, which consists of natural oils and silicones, here is some feedback and suggestions for adjustment:

Your formula:

• Cyclopentasiloxane 1%
• Dimethicone 1%
• Cyclomethicone 1%
• Argan Oil 10%
• Almond Oil 5%
• Silicone Blender 3-4%
• SiliSolve Plus 0.5-1.0%

Analysis and Suggestions:

1. Silicone and Oil Ratio: The current formula has a relatively high percentage of natural oils (15% total) compared to silicones (3% total, assuming Cyclopentasiloxane and Cyclomethicone refer to the same ingredient, plus Dimethicone). For a typical lightweight hair serum that provides slip, shine, and frizz control without feeling heavy, the silicone content is usually much higher, often ranging from 50% to 90%. The high oil content in your current formula might result in a heavier, potentially greasy feel on the hair.

   • Suggestion: To achieve a lighter, more serum-like texture, significantly increase the total percentage of silicones (like Cyclopentasiloxane and Dimethicone) and decrease the total percentage of natural oils.

2. SiliSolve Plus: SiliSolve Plus is designed to emulsify water with oil and silicone phases (W/O/Si emulsifier), particularly in formulas with high water content. Your formula is anhydrous (contains no water).

   • Suggestion: SiliSolve Plus is not needed in this water-free formula and should be removed.

3. Silicone Blender: Silicone Blender helps blend different types of silicones and can improve stability in certain silicone serum formulas. Your usage rate (3-4%) is within the recommended range.

   • Suggestion: While it might help blend the oils and silicones, its necessity is less critical in a simple anhydrous blend compared to formulas containing silicone gels or water. You could test the formula without it, or keep it within the recommended range if it improves the texture or stability to your liking.

4. Silicone Types: You are using Cyclopentasiloxane (a volatile silicone that evaporates, providing a light feel) and Dimethicone (a non-volatile silicone that provides lasting conditioning and shine). Using a blend of volatile and non-volatile silicones is good for balancing feel and performance.

   • Suggestion: When increasing the total silicone content, consider the ratio of volatile to non-volatile silicones based on the desired feel. More volatile silicones result in a lighter, faster-drying serum, while more non-volatile silicones provide more intense conditioning and shine.

Revised Formulation Concept (Example):

To create a more typical lightweight silicone hair serum, consider a structure like this:

• Cyclopentasiloxane (or other volatile silicone): 60-80%
• Dimethicone (Light viscosity): 5-15%
• Argan Oil and Almond Oil: 1-5% total (adjust based on desired nourishment vs. lightness)
• Silicone Blender: Optional (test if needed, 2-5%)
• Other desired oil-soluble additives (e.g., fragrance, Vitamin E) in small percentages.

This type of formula would provide the characteristic smooth, non-greasy feel and shine associated with silicone hair serums, while still incorporating the benefits of natural oils at a level that doesn't weigh the hair down.

Remember to always make small test batches when adjusting formulations.