Formulating Ichthammol Cleansing Gel: Odor Control, Mixing, and Usage Rates

Question

I am formulating a facial cleansing gel using Ichthammol. I have a few questions: If Ichthammol has a strong smell, can I mix it with Odor-Kill in the facial cleansing gel to eliminate the odor? The information states that Ichthammol should be mixed with oil in the formula to enhance performance. Should I mix Ichthammol directly with any oil (e.g., Rose Hip Oil) until combined before adding it to the base (water, surfactant, etc.)? Or should I mix the water, surfactant, and oil first, and then add Ichthammol and preservatives after everything is well combined? Will the formula be compatible and stable using this method? What is a suitable percentage for the oil? Is the recommended usage for Ichthammol 2-3%? Is 0.5% Disodium EDTA sufficient?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Formulation Advice for Ichthammol Cleansing Gel

Here is information regarding your questions about formulating a facial cleansing gel with Ichthammol, Odor-Kill, Rose Hip Oil, and Disodium EDTA:

Odor Control

Yes, you can use Odor-Kill to help reduce the strong smell of Ichthammol in your facial cleansing gel. Odor-Kill is designed to absorb various odors, including chemical and natural extract smells. It is water-soluble and should be added towards the end of your formulation process. Keep in mind that if you plan to add any fragrance to your gel, Odor-Kill may absorb that scent as well.

Mixing Method

Your proposed mixing order is generally a suitable approach for creating a cleansing gel. You can combine the water phase ingredients, including surfactants and Disodium EDTA, and then incorporate the oil phase (Rose Hip Oil). Ichthammol can be dispersed in a small amount of oil, glycerin, or alcohol before being added to the main base. Ensure that the oil is properly solubilized or emulsified within the water/surfactant system to maintain formula stability and clarity.

Usage Rates

Ichthammol: Your proposed usage rate of 2-3% is correct for wash-off facial cleansing products. This concentration is indicated for reducing acne.
Rose Hip Oil: The product description states a usage rate of 1-100%. For a facial cleansing gel, a typical range to provide skin conditioning without compromising cleansing performance might be lower, such as 1-5%. The optimal percentage will depend on your specific formula and desired feel.
Disodium EDTA: The recommended usage rate for Disodium EDTA is 0.2%. Using 0.5% is higher than necessary; 0.2% is sufficient for its function as a chelating agent to improve stability.

Formula Compatibility

The ingredients you mentioned are generally compatible for use in a cleansing gel formulation when incorporated using standard cosmetic formulation techniques, including proper solubilization or emulsification of the oil phase.