For formulating a facial gel with SNAP-8, GHK-Cu, and a Hyaluronic Acid (HA) base to achieve a non-liquid gel texture, here is our recommendation:

Key Ingredients and Their Properties

• Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (eq. SNAP-8): This peptide works to reduce muscle contraction, helping to reduce wrinkles. It should be added in the final step of your formulation, ensuring the cosmetic temperature is below 40°C. The recommended usage rate is 3-10%.
• Pep®-GHK2CU1-10000 (Bis Tripeptide-1 Copper Acetate, 10000ppm): Also known as GHK-Cu, this copper peptide is beneficial for wound healing, tissue repair, anti-aging, and antioxidant effects. Like SNAP-8, it should be added in the final step when the temperature is below 40°C. Crucially, the formula's pH must be maintained within the range of 4.5-7.4 to ensure its stability. The recommended usage rate is 1-3%.
• Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Base for Gel Texture: To achieve a non-liquid gel texture, we recommend using Hyaluronic Acid types known for their gelling properties.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base: This is a ready-to-use gel base that provides light moisture and is easy to incorporate other ingredients into. It is preservative-free, fragrance-free, and emulsifier-free. You can use it as 1-100% of your base.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Elastomer (Hyacross Gel): This type forms a thick gel texture with excellent, long-lasting moisture retention due to its cross-polymer structure. It also forms a protective film on the skin. It can be mixed directly into the water phase, and the formula's pH should be 3-8. Recommended usage is 1-5%.
  • Hyaluronic Acid (Large Molecule, 2M Daltons): This powder form creates a good gel and coats the skin well, providing moisture to the outer skin layer. It needs to be dissolved in cold water, which can take several hours (or with a high-speed blender). The pH should be between 3.0-9.0.
  • 17D Hyaluronic Acid (High Concentrate / High Viscosity): This is a highly concentrated blend of 17 types of HA, offering a thick, cloudy gel texture that is easy to use and can be mixed immediately into water formulas. It is suitable for creating high-viscosity gels. Recommended usage is 1-20%, depending on the desired viscosity and skin type.

Formulation Guidance

1. Prepare the Hyaluronic Acid Base: Choose one or a combination of the recommended Hyaluronic Acid types to achieve your desired gel consistency. If using powder forms (like Large Molecule HA), ensure it is fully dissolved to form the gel. If using a pre-made gel base or liquid HA, simply incorporate it as your main water phase.
2. Adjust pH: Before adding the peptides, ensure your gel base has a pH within the optimal range for GHK-Cu (4.5-7.4). You may need to use a pH adjuster if necessary.
3. Incorporate Peptides: Once the base is ready and the temperature is below 40°C, gently mix in the Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (eq. SNAP-8) and Pep®-GHK2CU1-10000 (Bis Tripeptide-1 Copper Acetate, 10000ppm) until fully dispersed.
4. Add Preservative: Always add a suitable preservative to your formulation to ensure stability and prevent microbial growth, especially since Hyaluronic Acid solutions are prone to bacterial contamination.

By following these guidelines, you can create an effective facial gel with the desired texture and stability for your active ingredients. You can find links to all mentioned products below this answer.