Adjusting Self-Tanning Gel Formula for Faster Drying
Question
How can I adjust a self-tanning gel formula containing Water (87%), Ethoxydiglycol/DMI (3%), DHA (3.5%), Reservoir-Tech (3%), EasyTan™ (1.5%), Pro Polymer (1%), and Mild Preserved Eco (1%) to dry faster, as the current formula dries slowly? Which ingredients should I remove or adjust?
Answer
Regarding your self-tanning gel formula that dries slowly, the ingredients most likely contributing to this issue are the polymers and potentially other film-forming or viscosity-increasing agents.
Based on the provided list:
- Pro Polymer (1%): Polymers are commonly used as thickeners or film-formers in cosmetic formulas. They often create a film on the skin that slows down drying and can cause a tacky feeling. At 1%, this is a significant contributor to the drying time.
- Reservoir-Tech (3%): Depending on its composition, this ingredient might also contribute to film formation or residue that slows drying, especially since it's mentioned to enhance efficacy (which could involve a delivery system or matrix).
To make the formula dry faster, the most effective approach is usually to reduce the concentration of the polymer (Pro Polymer) or replace it with a different type of polymer or thickener that dries faster and leaves less tackiness. Reducing the amount of Reservoir-Tech might also help if it's contributing, but you would need to test if this affects the formula's efficacy.
Simply removing an ingredient entirely might destabilize the formula or reduce its intended performance. Therefore, adjusting the concentration or substituting is generally preferred.