Advice on Your Exfoliating Lotion Formula

Based on your proposed ingredients and the staff's responses, here is a summary and guidance for your exfoliating lotion formula:

Your initial list includes several potent exfoliating ingredients at concentrations that may be too high, especially when combined. The staff's advice emphasizes starting cautiously with exfoliation.

Here are the points addressing your questions:

• Recommended Percentages: The staff recommends starting with a lower concentration of strong exfoliants like Glycolic Acid, suggesting 5% as a starting point, particularly if the skin is not accustomed to AHAs. Using multiple strong exfoliants (like 10% Glycolic Acid and 10% Salicylic Acid EZ™, which is 2% active BHA) in one formula at high percentages is generally not advised for beginners due to high irritation risk. The staff also recommends focusing on one primary exfoliant rather than combining many.
• Additional Beneficial Ingredients / Ingredients to Remove:
  • You can add irritation-reducing ingredients like Phyto Glycyrrhetinic Acid (2%) or Atopi-Telmesteine™ (2%) to help soothe the skin. If using Glycolic Acid, the formula's pH must be adjusted to at least 3.5 for these to be compatible.
  • The staff suggested considering milder exfoliating alternatives like Pumpkin Renew™, Yeast Resurface, or Japanese Cedar.
  • Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is not stable in water-based formulas and is not suitable for this lotion.
  • Ingredients like Tomato Extract cannot simply replace others like Vitamin E; each has unique properties.
• Concern about Thick/Sticky Texture: As the staff noted, using too many ingredients can lead to a thick or sticky texture. Keeping the formula simpler can help achieve a better feel.
• Face and Body Use: While ingredients can generally be used on both, concentrations often differ. High concentrations of exfoliants suitable for the body might be too irritating for the face. Consider adjusting concentrations or creating separate formulas if needed.
• Making a Tester Product: Information on creating tester products should be obtained by contacting MySkinRecipes directly, as this service is outside the scope of this tool.

Key Takeaway: It is recommended to start with a simpler formula, using a lower concentration of one primary exfoliant, especially if you are new to these ingredients. Pay close attention to ingredient compatibility and pH levels.