Creating an Oil-Based Formulation with Retinaldehyde

You're looking to create a simple oil-based formulation for research using a Vitamin A derivative. Based on the product link you provided, you are referring to Retinal-EZ™ (Encapsulated Water Dispersible Retinal), which contains Retinaldehyde, not Retinol.

It's important to note that Retinal-EZ™ is designed to be water-dispersible, not oil-soluble. This means creating a simple, clear solution in a pure oil base might not be achievable. It is intended to be mixed directly into water-based formulas. However, since the product itself contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, you might be able to disperse it in a suitable oil base for your research, though homogeneity and stability might differ compared to a water-based system or an emulsion.

Maximum Usage Percentage

The Retinal-EZ™ product contains 2.0% active Retinal. The supplier recommends a usage rate of 1-5% of the Retinal-EZ™ product in a formula.

For cosmetic products in Thailand, the maximum allowed concentration of active Retinaldehyde is 0.05%. To achieve this concentration using Retinal-EZ™, you would use 2.5% of the Retinal-EZ™ product (since 2.5% of 2.0% is 0.05%).

For your research purposes, you might choose to use a higher concentration up to the supplier's recommended maximum of 5% of the Retinal-EZ™ product (which would yield 0.1% active Retinal), but be aware that this exceeds the Thai FDA limit for commercial products.

Suitable Non-Comedogenic Oil Base

For a non-comedogenic oil base suitable for a simple formulation, Fractionated Coconut Oil (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride) is a good option. It is lightweight, easily absorbed, and non-comedogenic. It is also present in the INCI list of Retinal-EZ™, making it a compatible carrier. Mineral Oil (Very Light) is another non-comedogenic option.

Simple Formulation Example

Given that Retinal-EZ™ is water-dispersible, a simple mixture in oil will likely be a dispersion rather than a true solution. For a basic research formulation using Fractionated Coconut Oil as the base:

• Option 1 (Meeting Thai FDA active limit):

  • Retinal-EZ™: 2.5%
  • Fractionated Coconut Oil: 97.5%

• Option 2 (Using supplier's maximum recommended product rate):

  • Retinal-EZ™: 5.0%
  • Fractionated Coconut Oil: 95.0%

Mixing Method: Gently mix the Retinal-EZ™ into the chosen oil base. Avoid heating the mixture, as Retinaldehyde is sensitive to heat.

Important Considerations:

• Retinaldehyde is sensitive to light and air. Store the final product in an opaque, airtight container.
• Consider adding antioxidants like Vitamin E or BHT, and potentially a UV filter, to help stabilize the Retinaldehyde, as suggested in the Retinal-EZ™ description (though the description mentions Protec™ products which are specific stabilizers). For a simple research formula, minimizing components might be desired, but stability should be considered for accurate results.
• Since Retinal-EZ™ is water-dispersible, this simple oil mixture might not be perfectly stable or homogeneous over time compared to an emulsified system.