Dissolving Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) for Cosmetic Formulas

Yes, you should dissolve Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) powder in Propylene Glycol before adding it to your essence formula, especially if you want the final product to be clear.

• To dissolve ALA completely until clear, you should use a high ratio of Propylene Glycol, at least 10 times the amount of ALA (ALA : Propylene Glycol ratio of 1:10 or more).
• If you are developing a gel or cream formula, complete dissolution until clear is not strictly necessary. You can use a lower ratio of Propylene Glycol, about 2-3 times the amount of ALA (ALA : Propylene Glycol ratio of 1:2 or 1:3). This will partially dissolve the ALA, and the undissolved portion will disperse well in the formula, allowing the skin to absorb it.
• It is important that at least some portion of the ALA is dissolved for the skin to be able to absorb and utilize it.