Adjusting Lotion Formula: Completing, Adding Actives, and Emulsifier Substitution
Asked by: chaveba.cat
On: August 20, 2014
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
I have a lotion formula that currently sums to 99%. I need advice on the following:
- How can I adjust the formula to reach 100%?
- What ingredients can I add to address sun-damaged, dark, and dry skin?
- Is it possible to replace the
Light Cream Makerin my formula withSoy Lecithin? What are the considerations?
Answer
Okay, let's address your questions about the lotion formula. It's great you're starting to make your own products!
- Completing the formula to 100% and adding ingredients for sun-damaged, dark, and dry skin:
- Your current formula adds up to 99%. The easiest way to reach 100% is to simply increase the water percentage by 1%, making it 82% water.
- For dry skin, adding Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) is an excellent idea. You can add it at 3-5%. If you add Vitamin B5, remember to reduce the water percentage by the same amount to keep the total at 100%. For example, if you add 3% Vitamin B5, reduce water from 82% to 79%.
- For skin darkened by the sun, your formula already includes Alpha Arbutin and N-acetyl-d glucosamine, which are effective ingredients for addressing this concern.
- Replacing Light Cream Maker with Soy Lecithin:
- Yes, it is possible to use Soy Lecithin instead of Light Cream Maker.
- However, for a beginner, it is generally not recommended. Light Cream Maker is designed to be very easy to use – you can often just add it and stir to get a cream texture. Soy Lecithin is more challenging to work with, typically requires heating, and you might need to experiment with the percentage (around 7-8% for a formula with high water content like yours) to get the desired consistency. Sticking with Light Cream Maker for your first attempt will likely make the process much smoother and more successful.
Hope this helps you get started!