Formulating a Cream with High Concentration Glycolic Acid (AHA)
Question
I would like to create a cream formulation containing a high concentration of AHA, specifically 5% glycolic acid. What emulsifier and thickener should I use to successfully formulate this cream, considering the high acidity? Could you provide an example formula?
I am looking for a formula with the following ingredients:
- Luxury Cream Maker
- Pro Polymer
- glycolic acid 5%
- PE-1 Aqua
- Fractionated Coconut Oil
- glycerin
- Phenoxyethanol SA
- Water
The desired formula should provide moisture and exfoliate skin cells.
Answer
Hello.
We recommend considering using Luxury Cream Maker to create the cream texture.
Using AHA at high levels may require using Pro Polymer together to help create the texture, as ingredients with high acidity make formulating and texturizing more difficult.
Example formula:
- Luxury Cream Maker 4%
- Pro Polymer 1%
- glycolic acid 5% [Small molecule AHA, easily absorbed into the skin]
- PE-1 Aqua 3% [Helps carry AHA to absorb deeper]
- Fractionated Coconut Oil 10% [Provides skin moisture, replenishes oil]
- glycerin 5% [Provides a moisturizing skin feel]
- Phenoxyethanol SA 1% [Preservative]
- Water Remaining amount
The formula will provide moisture and exfoliate skin cells only.
Thank you.
Staff - MySkinRecipes
Related Products Mentioned
Glycerin (USP/Food Grade)
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Pro Polymer™ (Gel Maker)
Luxury Cream Maker™
Glycopure™ (Glycolic Acid (AHA) Powder)
PE-1 Aqua
