Formulation for Oily Skin and Acne

Regarding the cream formulation you provided for oily skin with clogged pores and occasional inflammatory acne, the mixing steps you outlined are correct. As confirmed by the staff, you should mix ingredients 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7 (water) together, dissolving them one by one until clear, then add ingredient 6, and finally the preservative (ingredient 5).

The formula is generally suitable for your skin type, incorporating several ingredients known to benefit oily and acne-prone skin:

• Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide): Helps reduce oiliness by controlling sebum excretion, reduces redness and dark spots, strengthens the skin barrier, and provides moisture.
• N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG): Works with Niacinamide for potential skin brightening and dark spot reduction. It also helps stimulate the skin's natural hyaluronic acid production for moisture and provides gentle exfoliation which can help reduce acne breakouts.
• Zinc PCA: Known for its ability to reduce skin oiliness, accelerate the healing of acne scars, stimulate collagen production, and reduce inflammation associated with acne.
• Salicylic Acid EZ: This is a water-soluble form of Salicylic Acid (BHA) that is stable and designed to penetrate pores effectively to help dissolve clogged acne. It is important to note from the product information that Salicylic Acid EZ™ cannot be mixed with Zinc PCA in the same formula. This is a critical incompatibility in your proposed formula.
• Phenoxyethanol: Acts as a preservative to keep the product stable and safe.
• Light Cream Maker: Functions as an emulsifier and thickener to create the cream texture.

Important Consideration:

The product description for Salicylic Acid EZ™ explicitly states that it cannot be mixed with Zinc PCA in the same formula. Your proposed formula includes both ingredients. While both are beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin, combining them in a single product is not recommended according to the Salicylic Acid EZ™ product information due to incompatibility. You may need to choose one of these ingredients or consider using them in separate formulations.

Additional Recommendation:

As suggested by the staff, adding Licorice Extract can further enhance this formula. Licorice Extract (specifically Licochalcone A) is effective in reducing skin inflammation, reducing redness from acne, and reducing overall irritation. It can also help control skin oiliness and mitigate potential irritation caused by Salicylic Acid.