Formula Analysis and Recommendations for Dry Skin Lotion

Thank you for sharing your lotion formula for analysis. Based on your ingredients and the previous discussion, here are some points to consider:

Compatibility Issue: Satin Mousse and Aloe Vera Extract

The most critical point raised in the discussion is the compatibility between Satin Mousse and Aloe Vera Extract. Aloe Vera Extract contains electrolytes, and as noted, Satin Mousse has limited tolerance for electrolytes. Using 1% Satin Mousse with 3% Aloe Vera Extract is likely to cause instability in your emulsion, potentially leading to thinning or separation.

Recommendation: You need to address this compatibility issue.

• Option 1: Increase Satin Mousse. You could try increasing the concentration of Satin Mousse to see if it can tolerate the 3% Aloe Vera Extract. This would require testing to find the right level, and it might significantly increase the cost of your formula.
• Option 2: Switch Emulsifier. A more reliable approach might be to switch to an emulsifier that is more tolerant of electrolytes, such as Light Cream Maker, Warp Cream Maker, or Pro Polymer, as suggested in the discussion.

Moisturizing Efficacy for Dry Skin

Your formula includes good moisturizing ingredients like Grape Seed Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Extravirgin Olive Oil, Shea Butter, Waterlock, and Panthenol (Vitamin B5). However, the total oil and butter phase is relatively low (5% oils + 1% Shea Butter = 6%) for a lotion specifically designed for dry skin. While the current levels provide some moisture, they might not be sufficient for very dry conditions, as also mentioned by the staff.

Recommendation: Consider increasing the total percentage of your oil and butter phase. Increasing the combined amount of Grape Seed Oil, Rice Bran Oil, Extravirgin Olive Oil, and Shea Butter to a total of 10-20% could provide richer emollience and better address the needs of dry skin.

Other Ingredients

• Phenoxyethanol (1%): This is a standard and effective preservative level. Note that Phenoxyethanol is primarily effective against bacteria; you might consider a broad-spectrum preservative or a combination if needed, especially given the water content and natural extracts.
• Waterlock (1%): This ingredient helps prevent water loss from the skin. 1% is a good starting point, and you could potentially increase it to 2% for enhanced moisture retention.
• Bisabolol (1%): This is an excellent anti-irritant and soothing ingredient, used at a recommended level.
• Panthenol (Vitamin B5) (1.5%): A great humectant and skin conditioner, used at a good level.

Testing is Key

As the staff correctly advised, always start by making a small test batch (e.g., 50g) to check for stability (no separation or thinning) and evaluate the texture and feel on the skin. You can then adjust the formula based on your observations and the desired richness for dry skin.

In summary, the main challenge is the compatibility of your emulsifier with the Aloe Vera Extract. Once that is resolved, consider increasing the oil/butter phase to enhance the moisturizing benefits for dry skin.