Dissolving 100% Pure Retinol Powder: Recommended Oil and Cold Process Method
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.
- 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.
- Add Retinol: Slowly add the measured amount of Retinol (100% Pure Powder) (ID: 8288) to the oil/Vitamin E mixture.
- 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.
- 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.
Related Products Mentioned
Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol)
Shea Butter Light Oil