Analysis of Cosmetic Formulations

Hello! It's completely understandable to feel a bit lost when looking at cosmetic formulations for the first time. We're happy to help you understand these two formulas.

Based on the ingredients listed, here is an analysis of the two formulations:

Formulation 1 Analysis

This formula appears to be a gel or light serum, primarily water-based, designed for gentle exfoliation and hydration.

Can it be used on the face?
Yes, this formula can generally be used on the face. The concentration of Glycolic Acid is relatively low, making it suitable for gentle facial exfoliation. However, it contains Cinnamomum Bark, which can potentially cause irritation for some sensitive skin types. It's always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to the entire face.

Nourishing and Repairing Properties:

• Exfoliation and Skin Renewal: Glycolic Acid (an AHA) helps to gently remove dead skin cells from the surface, promoting skin renewal. This can lead to a brighter complexion, smoother texture, and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines over time.
• Hydration: Ingredients like Raffinose, Glycerin, and Propylene Glycol are humectants that attract and hold moisture in the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and feeling plump.
• Soothing: Allantoin is known for its ability to soothe the skin, reduce irritation, and support the natural healing process.
• Other Ingredients: Morus Alba Root Extract is often used for skin brightening, although specific properties in this formula are not detailed. Carbopol 940 and Triethanolamine are used for creating the gel texture and adjusting pH. DMDM Hydantoin is a preservative.

Formulation 2 Analysis

This formula appears to be a cream or lotion, containing a mix of water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients, including emollients, exfoliants, and active skin-benefiting compounds.

Can it be used on the face?
Yes, this formula is generally suitable for facial use, particularly for concerns like acne, oiliness, uneven tone, and texture. It contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) and Niacinamide, which are widely used in facial skincare. The presence of emollients like Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, and Cyclopentasiloxane provides a moisturizing and smooth feel. Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide are included, likely contributing to opacity or minimal sun protection. While Isopropyl Myristate can be comedogenic for some, the overall formulation and concentration might be acceptable. Patch testing is recommended, especially if you have acne-prone skin.

Nourishing and Repairing Properties:

• Exfoliation and Pore Clearing: Salicylic Acid (a BHA) is effective at penetrating oil within pores, helping to dissolve blockages, treat acne, and prevent breakouts. It also provides surface exfoliation.
• Skin Barrier Support, Tone, and Oil Control: Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a powerful ingredient that helps strengthen the skin's natural barrier, reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, minimize the appearance of pores, regulate sebum (oil) production, and offers antioxidant benefits. It contributes to overall skin health and resilience.
• Hydration and Softening: Glycerin and Allantoin provide hydration and soothing benefits. Emollients such as Triolein, Isopropyl Myristate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Mineral Oil, Stearic Acid, and Cetyl Alcohol help to soften and smooth the skin, reduce moisture loss, and create a pleasant texture. Triolein may also aid in the absorption of other ingredients.
• Potential Protection: Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide are physical UV filters, offering some degree of sun protection, although the percentages suggest this might not be the primary function. Zinc Oxide also has soothing properties.
• Other Ingredients: Carbopol 940 and Triethanolamine are used for thickening and pH adjustment. Disodium EDTA helps with formula stability. DMDM Hydantoin is a preservative.

We hope this detailed breakdown is helpful! Let us know if you have any more questions.