Facial Cream Base for High Active Concentration and Light Texture
Question
I am looking for recommendations for a facial cream base to incorporate active ingredients at a concentration of 15% or higher.
My requirements for the cream base are:
- It should be an empty base, meaning it should not contain any other pre-mixed active ingredients.
- The texture should be:
- Easy to spread/clear
- Fast-absorbing
- Non-sticky
- Does not leave a white cast on the face after application.
Answer
Facial Cream Base Recommendations for High Active Concentrations
For a facial cream base that allows for 15% or higher active ingredient incorporation, focusing on a clear, fast-absorbing, non-sticky, and non-whitening texture without other pre-mixed actives, MySkinRecipes provides the following information:
The cream bases we have that are closest to your requirements are:
Skin Barrier Cream Base (Emulsifier Free): This base excels at restoring the skin's protective barrier and is free from potentially irritating emulsifiers. However, this base already contains several active ingredients such as Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, and Sodium Hyaluronate, which may not align with your need for an "empty base with no other actives." Additionally, its texture is quite thick. If a lighter consistency is desired, it would require dilution with water, which might make it challenging to incorporate a high active concentration of 15% without affecting the texture or stability of the formula.
Absolue Soft Cream Base (compare to Lancome): This base is developed to have a texture similar to Lancome products and is ready for the addition of almost all types of active ingredients, as it contains antioxidants to maintain the added actives. However, this base is designed for use at a 90-100% concentration, meaning it can accommodate a maximum of approximately 10% additional active ingredients. If you wish to add 15%, it would exceed the recommended usage rate. Furthermore, this base is formulated to coat the skin well, making it suitable for a night cream, which might not meet your desire for a "fast-absorbing, non-sticky" texture for general use.
Further Recommendations:
Given your specific requirements for an "empty" base that can accommodate a high concentration of actives (15% or more) while maintaining a light, fast-absorbing, non-sticky, and non-whitening texture, neither of the aforementioned cream bases may fully meet all criteria due to their initial compositions and recommended usage rates.
For bases that can truly support high active concentrations (15%+) and provide a light, fast-absorbing feel, we recommend considering gel-based systems or exploring custom formulations that allow for precise control over initial ingredients and desired texture.
