Compatibility and Mechanism of EGF, Wrinkle-Lax, and Wrinkle-Fill

Asked by: nonthipat.s On: January 20, 2024 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Are Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Wrinkle-Lax™, and Wrinkle-Fill™ (Acetyl-Tyrosine) compatible when combined in a formulation? Do any have incompatible properties or redundant mechanisms?

Answer

Based on the information about these ingredients:

  • Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF, Recombinant) works by promoting skin regeneration, strengthening the skin barrier, helping to restore skin from photo-aging, and reducing acne and inflammation. It functions as a growth factor.
  • Wrinkle-Lax™ is a muscle relaxant (similar to the effect of BOTOX) that reduces wrinkles caused by muscle contractions by stimulating the breakdown of Acetylcholine.
  • Wrinkle-Fill™ (Acetyl-Tyrosine) works by increasing skin firmness, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and collagen levels, addressing wrinkles related to skin structure and volume.

The mechanisms of action for these three ingredients are different and target different aspects of skin aging and wrinkle formation. EGF promotes overall skin health and repair, Wrinkle-Lax™ targets dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle movement, and Wrinkle-Fill™ targets wrinkles related to loss of firmness and structural support. Therefore, their mechanisms are complementary rather than redundant.

Regarding compatibility:

  • All three ingredients are water-soluble.
  • EGF is sensitive to temperature and should be added at the final step below 40°C (ideally 25°C). Wrinkle-Lax™ should avoid heat over 60°C. Wrinkle-Fill™ can be mixed with the water phase. Adding EGF at the cool-down phase should manage the temperature requirements.
  • The main compatibility consideration is pH. EGF is most stable at a pH of 3-5. Wrinkle-Fill™ is acidic, with a 2.5% solution having a pH of 2-3. Combining these ingredients may result in a final pH that is too low for the optimal stability of EGF. The formulator would need to carefully adjust the final pH of the product to be within the 3-5 range after all ingredients are added to ensure EGF remains effective.
  • Storage: EGF requires refrigeration (4-8°C), and Wrinkle-Fill™ benefits from refrigeration for long-term storage. Wrinkle-Lax™ can be stored at room temperature. Storing the final product in the refrigerator would be suitable for all three.

In summary, while their anti-wrinkle mechanisms are complementary, careful pH adjustment is necessary to ensure the stability and efficacy of EGF when combined with the acidic Wrinkle-Fill™.