Formula for Liquid Product with Urea, Glycolic Acid, and Salicylic Acid

Question

Could you please provide the active ingredients and a suggested formula for a liquid product (like a serum or toner) containing Urea, Glycolic Acid, and Salicylic Acid? I would also like to know the function of each ingredient and how to achieve specific textures/sensations like a cooling, fast-drying feel or a smooth feel, similar to an original formula.

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Based on the ingredients provided and the staff's analysis, here is a breakdown of the formula and a suggested recipe:

Original Ingredients:

Aqua (Water)
Glycerin
Polysorbates
Ethyl Alcohol
Urea
Chlorphenesin
Glycolic Acid
Salicylic Acid
Methylisothiazolinone
Perfume

Ingredient Functions:

Urea: Moisturizing and skin exfoliation.
Glycolic Acid (AHA): Moisturizing, skin exfoliation, helps reduce dark spots and wrinkles.
Salicylic Acid (BHA): Skin exfoliation and helps reduce dark spots.
Water: Solvent.
Glycerin: Humectant, provides a smooth skin feel.
Ethyl Alcohol: Solvent, provides a cooling sensation and helps the formula dry faster.
Polysorbates: Emulsifier/Solubilizer (helps mix oil-based ingredients like perfume with water).
Chlorphenesin, Methylisothiazolinone: Preservatives to prevent microbial growth.
Perfume: Fragrance.

Suggested Formulation (based on staff recommendation):

Water: Remaining percentage
Urea: 3%
Glycolic Acid: 3%
Salicylic Acid EZ (Water-soluble type): 5%
Optional: Ethyl Alcohol: 3-6% (for cooling/faster drying)
Optional: Glycerin: 5-10% (for smooth feel)
Add: Polysorbates, Preservatives (Chlorphenesin, Methylisothiazolinone), Perfume (adjust percentages based on supplier recommendations and desired levels, typically 0.1-1% for perfume, preservatives as recommended by supplier).

General Mixing Instructions:

Measure the required amount of Water.
Add Urea, Glycolic Acid, and Salicylic Acid EZ to the Water and stir until fully dissolved.
If using, add Ethyl Alcohol and Glycerin and mix well.
If using perfume, mix it with the appropriate amount of Polysorbates first, then add this mixture to the main batch and stir. If not using perfume, Polysorbates may not be needed unless other oil-soluble ingredients are added.
Add the preservatives (Chlorphenesin, Methylisothiazolinone) and mix thoroughly.
Ensure all ingredients are fully dispersed or dissolved. The final product should be a clear, colorless liquid as described.