Creating a Gel Serum with Tranexamic Acid
Question
How can I create a gel texture for a serum containing Tranexamic Acid and Liquid Germal Plus? What gelling agents are suitable, can I use Hyaluronic Acid, and can Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate replace distilled water in the formula?
Answer
Creating a Gel Serum with Tranexamic Acid
To create a gel formulation for your serum containing Tranexamic Acid and Liquid Germal Plus, you have a couple of options for achieving a gel texture:
1. Choosing a Gelling Agent or Using Hyaluronic Acid
You can use a dedicated gelling agent or incorporate Hyaluronic Acid to thicken your formula and prevent it from being a watery liquid.
Dedicated Gelling Agents: Several gelling agents are suitable for water-based formulas and are compatible with Tranexamic Acid's pH range. Good options include:
- ThixoGel™: Creates a thick, yet pourable (thixotropic) gel. It is resistant to electrolytes and works over a wide pH range (2-10). Note that it requires heat to dissolve.
- AnyGel™: Provides a non-greasy gel texture and is also resistant to acids, alkalis, and electrolytes.
- Other suitable options include Aristoflex AVC or SepGEL 305.
Hyaluronic Acid: Yes, Hyaluronic Acid is an excellent choice for thickening your formula while also providing significant hydration. Using Hyaluronic Acid (Large Molecule) is particularly effective for creating a good gel consistency.
The best choice depends on whether you primarily need thickening (dedicated gelling agent) or want thickening combined with moisturizing benefits (Hyaluronic Acid).
2. Using Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Instead of Water
Yes, you can use Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (aka Pitera) or Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate (Glycol Free, Glycerin Free, Preservative Free) to replace part or all of the distilled water in your formulation. These ingredients are water-soluble liquids that can serve as the base for your serum while adding their own skin-benefiting properties.
General Mixing Steps:
- Dissolve the Tranexamic Acid powder in your chosen water phase (Distilled Water, Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, or a combination).
- Add the gelling agent or Hyaluronic Acid to the water phase and mix according to the specific product's instructions until a gel forms.
- Once the gel is formed and the mixture is cool (if heat was used), add the Liquid Germal Plus and mix thoroughly.
Always refer to the recommended usage rates for each ingredient to ensure your formulation is effective and stable.
Related Products Mentioned
ThixoGel™ (Thixotropic Gel Maker)
Tranexamic Acid (Trans-White™)
AnyGel™
SepGEL 305