Enhancing After Sun Gel with Licorice Extract and Vitamin B5

Asked by: t.jirahirunsathien On: February 23, 2015 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I want to create an after-sun product, possibly based on Aloe Vera Gel, that helps soothe skin, reduce burning sensation, and provide moisture after sun exposure. I am considering adding ingredients like Licorice Extract and Vitamin B5.

Could you provide a formula suggestion or guidance on incorporating these ingredients into an Aloe Vera Gel base?

Answer

After Sun Formula for Soothing and Moisturizing

Using Aloe Vera Gel alone is a good starting point for after-sun care to help soothe and moisturize the skin. However, as discussed, adding other beneficial ingredients can significantly enhance its effectiveness, especially for reducing burning and inflammation.

Based on the recommendations, incorporating Licorice Extract and Vitamin B5 is highly beneficial.

  • Licorice Extract (Water-Soluble): This ingredient is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to reduce redness, burning, and irritation often associated with sunburn.
  • Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): This helps to hydrate the skin, improve its elasticity, reduce inflammation, and support the skin's natural healing process.

Simple Formula Suggestion

A straightforward way to create an effective After Sun gel is to use a ready-made Aloe Vera Gel base and add Licorice Extract.

  1. Choose an Aloe Vera Gel base, such as Aloe Vera Gel (Heavy) or Aloe Vera Gel (Lite). These bases already contain Aloe Vera, Vitamin B5, and Allantoin, providing a good foundation for soothing and moisturizing.
  2. Add Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 1%, Water-Soluble) to the base. A typical usage rate for this extract is 0.5-1.0% for reducing inflammation and irritation.

Since the Aloe Vera Gel bases already contain Vitamin B5, adding more may not be necessary unless you aim for a higher concentration. If you were making a formula from scratch using pure Aloe Vera Extract, you would definitely want to include Vitamin B5 (either Panthenol (Vitamin B5, DL-Panthenol, Powder) or D-Panthenol Care (Pro-Vitamin B5, 100% Liquid)) at a recommended rate of 1-3%.

This simple formula combining an Aloe Vera Gel base with added Licorice Extract will provide enhanced soothing, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing benefits to help your skin recover after sun exposure.