Dissolving Protec™ OX in Cream/Serum Formulations
Question
How can I effectively dissolve the oil-soluble antioxidant Protec™ OX, which requires heating to 70-80°C in the oil phase, for use in cream and serum formulations, especially when finding heat-stable oils is challenging? I previously used ActiveProtec™ OX but found it had an undesirable odor.
Answer
Dissolving Protec™ OX in Formulations
Protec™ OX is a highly effective antioxidant that requires dissolving in the oil phase at a high temperature of 70-80°C. Finding oils that are stable at this temperature for cream and serum formulations can be challenging.
Here are some oils that are generally stable and can withstand temperatures in the 70-80°C range, suitable for dissolving Protec™ OX:
- Mineral Oil: This is a very stable oil that does not easily go rancid and can withstand heat well. It is commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
- Hydrogenated Polyisobutene: This is another highly stable hydrocarbon oil that is often used in cosmetics and can tolerate heat.
Method for Dissolving Protec™ OX:
- Combine Protec™ OX with the chosen oil (such as Mineral Oil or Hydrogenated Polyisobutene) in the oil phase of your formulation.
- Heat the oil phase mixture to 70-80°C while stirring to ensure the Protec™ OX fully dissolves.
- Once completely dissolved, proceed with your standard formulation process, combining the heated oil phase with the water phase (if making an emulsion) and cooling down.
Regarding your previous experience with ActiveProtec™ OX, it is a water-soluble antioxidant. While effective, it is noted to have a slight odor, which is why you experienced a smell similar to hair perm solution. Protec™ OX, being oil-soluble and requiring heat, does not have this odor issue, making it a preferred choice if odor is a concern.
By selecting a heat-stable oil and ensuring the oil phase reaches 70-80°C with stirring, you should be able to successfully dissolve Protec™ OX for use in your cream and serum formulations.
