BHA Toner Formulation with Salicylic Acid

Regarding your question about mixing Encapsulated Salicylic Acid 5% with 95% distilled water for a BHA toner:

The specific product Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Liquid, Timed-Release, Wash-Off) (Product ID 229) that you mentioned is designed only for wash-off products like cleansers. It is not suitable for leave-on products such as toners.

For a leave-on BHA toner suitable for oily skin and large pores, you should use a water-soluble Salicylic Acid type that is intended for leave-on applications. We have several options that are suitable for mixing with water to create a toner:

• Complex Salicylic Acid (Powder, Water-Soluble) (Product ID 2014): This is a water-soluble powder containing 40% Salicylic Acid. You can use up to 5% in your formula, which provides the maximum allowed 2% active Salicylic Acid concentration.
• ActiveRelease™ Salicylic Acid (Powder, Water-Soluble) (Product ID 10947): Similar to Complex Salicylic Acid, this is a water-soluble powder with 40% Salicylic Acid and offers timed-release properties, making it gentle. Use up to 5% for 2% active Salicylic Acid.
• SalicSoft® (Betaine Salicylate) (Product ID 1173): This is a gentle, water-soluble option. Use up to 4% in your formula, which is equivalent to 2% active Salicylic Acid.
• Acacia Salicylic Acid (Product ID 7577): This water-soluble powder is designed to reduce irritation and can be used up to 4% in leave-on formulas.

To create a toner, you would mix the chosen water-soluble Salicylic Acid product at the appropriate usage rate (e.g., 5% of Complex Salicylic Acid or ActiveRelease™, or 4% of SalicSoft® or Acacia Salicylic Acid) with distilled water. It is crucial to add a broad-spectrum preservative to any water-based formula to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. A typical usage rate for a preservative like Mild Preserved Eco is 1%.

Regarding the broken bottle you received, the staff's advice is correct. Please contact customer service via email to request a replacement. The damaged product should be discarded as it may have been contaminated during transit.