Facial Spray Formulation Advice

Here is some advice regarding your facial spray formulation questions:

1. Mild Preserved Eco™ as a Preservative

Mild Preserved Eco™ (Product ID 1001) is suitable for use as a preservative in a facial mist/spray formulation with approximately 90% water content. It is described as gentle and non-irritating. The recommended usage rate for general cosmetic formulas is 1.0-1.5%. For formulas that are more challenging to preserve (e.g., containing many natural ingredients), you could consider using up to 2.0%. This ingredient works effectively within a pH range of 4-9, which is typical for facial sprays. It is also noted that formulas using Mild Preserved Eco™ can be claimed as "preservative-free" according to FDA regulations.

Your formula containing water, Glycerin, and Essential Oil would likely benefit from a usage rate within the 1.0-1.5% range.

2. Eye Safety

The description for Mild Preserved Eco™ states that it is gentle and does not irritate the skin. However, it does not specifically mention safety for direct contact with the eyes. As a general rule, cosmetic products, especially sprays, should avoid direct contact with the eyes unless they are specifically formulated and tested for ophthalmic use. While Mild Preserved Eco™ is considered gentle, it is best to advise users to avoid spraying directly into the eyes.

3. Cooling Sensation

To achieve a cooling sensation on the face for about 1 minute, you can use a suitable cooling agent. Since your formula is primarily water-based, water-soluble cooling agents are recommended.

Two options identified are:

• Water-Cool™ (Product ID 31989): This is a water-soluble cooling agent specifically mentioned as suitable for water-based spray formulas. It has a usage rate of 1-20% and can provide cooling for over 1 hour. To achieve a cooling effect for around 1 minute, you would likely need a lower percentage within this range.
• Menthol Water Soluble (20% Menthol, Liquid) (Product ID 7473): This is another water-soluble option with a usage rate of 0.1-5%. It provides both cooling and a menthol scent.

For a cooling effect lasting approximately 1 minute, start with a low percentage within the recommended range for your chosen cooling agent (e.g., 1-5% for Water-Cool™ or 0.1-1% for Menthol Water Soluble) and adjust based on the desired intensity and duration of the cooling sensation. Always test the formula for efficacy and safety, especially regarding skin sensation and potential irritation, before finalizing the concentration.

Ensure the cooling agent is fully dissolved in the water phase of your formulation.