Clear Oil-Based Hair Serum with Water-Solubles and Silicone Alternatives

Asked by: kwanawananon On: July 01, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics Answered

Question

How can I formulate a clear oil-based hair serum that includes water-soluble ingredients like Vitamin B5 and Keratin? Also, what are suitable silicone alternatives for slip in an oil-based formula?

Answer

Oil-Based Hair Serum Formulation

English Answer

Creating a clear oil-based hair serum that includes water-soluble ingredients like Vitamin B5 and Keratin is generally not possible.

  • Solubility: Vitamin B5 (Panthenol) and Keratin are water-soluble and do not dissolve in oil to form a clear solution. Adding them to an oil base will result in a cloudy or separated product.
  • Incorporating Water-Solubles: To include Vitamin B5 and Keratin, you would need a water phase in your formulation. Combining oil and water phases typically requires an emulsifier to create a stable mixture (like a lotion or cream), which will not be clear. Standard emulsifiers are for creating emulsions, not clear oil solutions with water-soluble ingredients.
  • Silicone Alternatives: Natural oils provide nourishment and some slip. If you want a feel similar to silicone without using silicones, consider incorporating natural emollients like CocoSilk™ (Coco-Caprylate/Caprate) into your oil blend. Blending different natural oils such as Grape Seed Oil, Sacha Inchi Oil, or Marula Oil can also help adjust the texture and feel.

If you wish to include Vitamin B5 and Keratin, you might need to consider a different product format, such as a hair lotion or cream (an emulsion), rather than a clear oil serum.