Suggested Ingredients

For Exfoliation

• Salicylic Acid (BHA): This is a Beta Hydroxy Acid known for its ability to exfoliate the skin's surface and penetrate oil, making it effective for areas with thicker skin. It helps to loosen and shed dead skin cells, improving texture and allowing brightening ingredients to work better. Consider using a water-soluble form like ActiveRelease™ Salicylic Acid which is designed for leave-on products and offers a gradual release, potentially reducing irritation. Also, standard Salicylic Acid (BHA) can be used, but requires dissolving in a suitable solvent first.
• Malic Acid: This is an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) that can contribute to exfoliation by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells. It also functions as a pH adjuster in formulations.

For Brightening

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): A versatile ingredient that helps improve skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and significantly reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting the transfer of pigment within the skin. Products like Safe-B3™ or Extreme-B3™ offer high purity Niacinamide suitable for cosmetic formulations.
• Alpha Arbutin: A well-known skin brightener that works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is crucial for melanin production. This helps to reduce the formation of dark spots and achieve a more even skin tone. Both Alpha Arbutin (Switzerland) and Alpha Arbutin (China, Powder, Enzymatic Synthesis) are options to consider.

Formulation Approach

You could create a serum or cream combining these ingredients. A serum base is often lighter and can penetrate well, while a cream base provides more hydration, which is also beneficial for dry elbow and knee areas.

• Start with a suitable base (serum or cream base).
• Incorporate the chosen exfoliating ingredient(s) at an appropriate concentration (refer to product usage rates for guidance, typically 1-2% for Salicylic Acid in leave-on products, and Malic Acid as needed for pH adjustment and exfoliation).
• Add the chosen brightening ingredient(s) (Niacinamide can be used up to 10%, Alpha Arbutin typically 0.2-2%).
• Ensure the final pH of your formulation is suitable for the ingredients to be effective and stable (e.g., Alpha Arbutin works best between pH 3.5-6.5, Niacinamide between 4.0-7.0, Salicylic Acid requires an acidic pH to be effective). Malic Acid can help adjust the pH.
• Include humectants and emollients in your formula to provide hydration and prevent dryness, which can be common with exfoliating products, especially on thicker skin.

Remember to always research the specific mixing instructions and usage rates for each ingredient you choose from the product descriptions. Starting with lower concentrations of active ingredients and gradually increasing is recommended to assess skin tolerance, especially for exfoliants.