Dissolving 100% Pure Retinol Powder: Recommended Oil and Cold Process Method

Asked by: info On: December 05, 2025 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I plan to purchase `Retinol (100% Pure Powder)`. I understand that this ingredient is highly sensitive to heat and requires careful handling.

1. What type of oil is recommended for dissolving the `Retinol (100% Pure Powder)`?
2. What is the proper method for dissolving the powder, ensuring that heat sensitivity is managed (cold process)?

Answer

You are correct that Retinol (100% Pure Powder) (ID: 8288) is highly sensitive to heat, light, and air, and should be handled with care.

Here is a guide on how to dissolve the Retinol powder and the recommended oil for the process:

1. Recommended Oil for Dissolution

The best type of oil for dissolving Retinol powder is a light, non-polar oil that is stable and has a low risk of oxidation.

  • Recommended Oil: Shea Butter Light Oil (ID: 669) is an excellent choice. It is an esterified oil with a lightweight, non-greasy texture that is easily absorbed. Its stability and texture make it ideal for dissolving sensitive ingredients like Retinol.
  • Stabilization: Retinol is highly prone to oxidation. To protect it and extend its shelf life, it is critical to add an antioxidant to the oil phase. We recommend using Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol) (ID: 135) at a concentration of 0.1% to 0.5% in the oil mixture.

2. Dissolution Method (Cold Process)

Retinol powder should be dissolved using a cold process to avoid degradation from heat.

  1. Prepare the Oil Phase: Measure the required amount of Shea Butter Light Oil (ID: 669) and the antioxidant, Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol) (ID: 135), into a clean, dark-colored container.
  2. Add Retinol: Slowly add the measured amount of Retinol (100% Pure Powder) (ID: 8288) to the oil/Vitamin E mixture.
  3. Dissolve Cold: Stir the mixture very gently and continuously at room temperature (or slightly cooler) until the powder is fully dissolved. This may take some time, but do not apply heat.
  4. Protect from Light: Perform this process in a dimly lit area and immediately store the resulting Retinol oil solution in an airtight, dark container, preferably in a refrigerator or freezer for long-term storage, as the raw material description advises.

Key Usage and Storage Notes

  • Usage Rate: The maximum recommended usage rate for Retinol (100% Pure Powder) (ID: 8288) is not more than 0.1% in the final product.
  • Storage: The raw powder and the resulting oil solution must be stored at the lowest possible temperature (should be frozen for long-term storage), sealed tightly, and protected from sunlight and heat.

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