Anti-Wrinkle Eye Formulation with Argireline and Matrixyl 3000

It's great that you're interested in making your own skincare! You are correct that Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) is an active ingredient that needs to be mixed into a base product and cannot be used directly on the skin. It works well when combined with Matrixyl 3000 (Pal-GHK, Pal-GQPR) for comprehensive anti-aging effects.

• How they work together: Argireline helps reduce wrinkles caused by muscle movement, particularly around the eyes and forehead. Matrixyl 3000 stimulates the skin to produce collagen and other components essential for youthful skin, helping to reduce wrinkles and improve elasticity.

• Getting Started with Formulation:

  1. Choose a Base: Since you prefer a gel or essence, you can start with a simple pre-made gel base or create one using gelling agents like Carbomer or Hyaluronic Acid powder mixed with water.
  2. Add Actives: Incorporate Argireline and Matrixyl 3000 into your base. Based on typical recommendations:
     • Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8): Use at a rate of 3-10%.
     • Matrixyl 3000 (Pal-GHK, Pal-GQPR): Use at a rate of 3-5% (3% is often recommended).
  3. Mixing: Both Argireline and Matrixyl 3000 should be added in the final step of your formulation, after the base is complete and cooled down. The temperature of the mixture should be below 40°C.
  4. pH Adjustment: Ensure the final pH of your formulation is within the recommended range for Argireline, which is 3.5-6.5.
  5. Preservation: Since you are using water, you will need to add a preservative to prevent microbial growth.

• Regarding Water and Disodium EDTA:

  • Using sterile water for irrigation USP is a good choice for your water phase. As mentioned previously, if you use sterile water, adding Disodium EDTA is not strictly necessary but can be done without harm. Disodium EDTA is a chelating agent that helps bind metal ions in water, which can sometimes cause ingredients to degrade. If you are not using highly purified water or plan to store the product for a long time, adding Disodium EDTA can provide extra stability.

• For Dry/Dehydrated Skin: You mentioned your skin feels dehydrated. In addition to the peptides, consider adding moisturizing ingredients to your formulation, such as Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, or Panthenol (Vitamin B5), to address the lack of hydration.

Starting with a simple gel or essence base and adding these key actives at their recommended percentages is a practical way to begin your DIY skincare journey for eye wrinkles.