Body Oil Formulation Review, Texture, Breakouts, and Preservatives

Based on the formula you provided:

• C12-15 alkyl benzoate (LipidSoft Oil Free) and Caprylic/capric triglyceride (Fractionated Coconut Oil) are emollients. They help moisturize the skin and improve the texture of the oil, making it feel less heavy and absorb better. These are generally considered lighter oils compared to mineral oil or shea butter.
• Ethoxydiglycol and Dimethyl isosorbide are solvents/carriers. They help dissolve other ingredients (especially actives) and can enhance penetration into the skin. As the staff mentioned, Dimethyl isosorbide might not be necessary if all other ingredients dissolve well.
• Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C Ester), Hydroxypinacolone retinoate, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate), and Tocopherol (Vitamin E) are active ingredients. Ascorbyl Palmitate and the Vitamin E forms are antioxidants and can help with skin brightening and conditioning. Hydroxypinacolone retinoate is a Vitamin A derivative known for skin renewal and potentially reducing the appearance of marks and wrinkles. As the staff mentioned, you would need to use alternatives like Retinyl Palmitate or Retinyl Acetate if you are sourcing ingredients from the shop.
• C12-15 alcohols were noted by staff as not necessary.
• Fragrance and its components (Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Benzyl benzoate, Benzyl cinnamate, Benzyl Salicylate, Citral, Citronellol, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, limonene) provide scent. Benzyl benzoate was noted by staff as not necessary (as it's a fragrance component).

This formula seems designed to be a lighter-feeling body oil compared to one made purely from heavier oils, thanks to the inclusion of C12-15 alkyl benzoate and Caprylic/capric triglyceride. The actives aim to provide benefits like antioxidant protection, brightening, and skin renewal, which could help with skin tone and the appearance of marks.

Regarding your previous questions:

• Texture: This formula uses emollients known for their lighter feel, which should help with absorption and reduce the sticky feeling you experienced with your previous mix. If you still find it too heavy, you could try replacing some of the oil phase with even lighter options like Squalane, as suggested by the staff.
• Breakouts: As the staff explained, breakouts depend heavily on individual skin type and the concentration of oils used. While this formula uses lighter oils, any oil-based product can potentially cause breakouts for some people. If you experience breakouts, you might need to reduce the overall oil content or consider a different product format (like a lotion or cream).
• Preservatives: As the staff mentioned, if the formula contains absolutely no water, a preservative is not strictly necessary for personal use. However, for commercial products, it is recommended.

This formula looks like a reasonable approach for a body oil aiming for moisturizing and skin improvement benefits with a lighter feel.