Custom Cream: Why is it Yellow & Can I Use it Day/Night?

Asked by: noomnumber1 On: September 09, 2014 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I have a custom cream formulation containing the following ingredients:

  • Co-Enzyme Q10 5%
  • Licorice Root Extract
  • Green Tea EGCG
  • Pure Aloe Vera Gel
  • Hyaluronic Acid
  • MOIST72
  • Rice Vitamin
  • Allantoin
  • Bisabolol
  • Glucosamine
  • LipidSoft CC
  • Arbutin
  • Vitamin B3
  • Apple Stem Cell Extract

The cream has a yellow color. What ingredient is likely causing this yellow color? Also, I've heard that using it in the morning might be suitable for dry skin, but can this cream be used both morning and night?

Answer

Analysis of Your Custom Cream Formulation

You've asked about using your custom cream formulation both morning and night, and what ingredient might be causing its yellow color. Based on the ingredients you provided and the information available, here is an analysis:

Why is the Cream Yellow?

The most likely ingredient contributing to the yellow color of your cream is Co-Enzyme Q10. Product descriptions for Co-Enzyme Q10 often note its characteristic dark yellow or yellow powder appearance. Given its presence at 5% in your formula, it is a significant contributor to the final color.

Licorice Root Extract can also have a color ranging from colorless to light yellow or brown depending on the specific type used, and might contribute to the overall shade.

Other ingredients like Green Tea EGCG are described as dark green-brown liquids, which could influence the color, but Co-Enzyme Q10 is typically the primary source of a distinct yellow hue.

Can You Use This Cream Morning and Night?

Based on the list of ingredients in your formulation, the cream appears suitable for both morning and night use. The formula contains a blend of ingredients with various beneficial properties:

  • Moisturizing and Soothing: Ingredients like Pure Aloe Vera Gel, Hyaluronic Acid, MOIST72, Rice Vitamin, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Glucosamine, and LipidSoft CC provide hydration, soothe the skin, and support the skin barrier. These are beneficial for use at any time of day, and the rich moisturizing components likely make it suitable for dry skin in the morning, as suggested in one of the replies you received.
  • Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Co-Enzyme Q10, Green Tea EGCG, Licorice Root Extract, Rice Vitamin, Vitamin B3, and Apple Stem Cell Extract offer antioxidant protection against environmental damage and help reduce inflammation. Antioxidants are excellent for daytime use to help defend the skin and for nighttime repair.
  • Brightening: Arbutin is included for its skin brightening properties.

There are no ingredients in your list that are typically restricted to nighttime-only use (such as strong exfoliants or high-strength retinoids).

Important Consideration: When using products containing brightening ingredients like Arbutin during the day, it is crucial to follow up with adequate sun protection (sunscreen) to prevent sun sensitivity and ensure the best results.