Formula for Acne and Skin Brightening

Question

I have developed a formula for acne reduction and achieving white, clear skin with the following ingredients and percentages: Pro Polymer™ (Gel Maker) 1%, HyaCoat™ Skin 0.1%, Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 1%) 2%, EDTA 0.2%, Mild Preserved Eco™ 1%, Willow Bark Extract 5%, Rose (Rosa Damascena) Extract 0.8%, Safe-B3™ 4%, GlucoBright™ 4%, Zinc PCA 1%, Tea Tree Oil (Water Soluble) 2%, Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5, DL-Panthenol, Powder) 1%, Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids 3%, TreMoisture™ (Trehalose) 3%. Could you please review this formula?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Subject: Formula Review for Acne and Brightening

Thank you for submitting your formula for review. This formula is designed to address acne and brighten the skin.

Based on the ingredients provided, the formula contains several active ingredients that are well-suited for these purposes:

For Acne Reduction:
- Willow Bark Extract: Contains natural salicylates, similar to Salicylic Acid, which helps exfoliate pores and reduce inflammation.
- Niacinamide (Safe-B3™): Helps reduce inflammation, regulate sebum production, and improve skin barrier function, all beneficial for acne-prone skin.
- Zinc PCA: Known for its ability to control sebum and provide antibacterial effects, targeting acne-causing bacteria.
- Tea Tree Oil (Water Soluble): Possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties commonly used in acne treatments.
- Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A): Provides soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help calm acne lesions.
For Skin Brightening:
- Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A): Known for its ability to inhibit melanin production and reduce hyperpigmentation.
- Niacinamide (Safe-B3™): Helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and improve overall skin tone.
- N-Acetyl Glucosamine (GlucoBright™): Works synergistically with Niacinamide to improve skin brightness and reduce hyperpigmentation.

The formula also includes moisturizing ingredients like HyaCoat™ (Hyaluronic Acid), Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5), Natural Moisturizing Amino Acids, and TreMoisture™ (Trehalose), which help maintain skin hydration and support a healthy skin barrier. Pro Polymer™ acts as a gelling agent, EDTA as a chelating agent for stability, and Mild Preserved Eco™ is the preservative blend.

Important Considerations:

This formula contains a relatively high concentration of multiple active ingredients targeting acne and brightening. While this can be effective, it also increases the potential for skin irritation, redness, or dryness, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
We highly recommend performing a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the product to your entire face to check for any adverse reactions.
The pH of the final formulation is crucial for the stability and efficacy of some ingredients, particularly Willow Bark Extract (salicylates) and Niacinamide. Ensure the pH is within the optimal range for these ingredients.

Overall, the ingredient selection in this formula appears well-aligned with the goals of reducing acne and achieving brighter, clearer skin. However, individual results may vary depending on skin type and sensitivity.