Formulation Check: Gel/Serum with Peptides and DMAE

Asked by: jutaratw On: May 10, 2024 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Can a serum/gel formula consisting of 84% Aloe Vera Gel, 10% Argireline, 3% Pep Coll, and 3% DMAE be mixed? What are the considerations regarding compatibility, usage rates, potential irritation, and pH stability for this formulation?

Answer

Formulation Review

Regarding the formulation you provided:

  • Aloe Vera Gel Heavy: 84%
  • Argireline: 10%
  • Pep Coll: 3%
  • DMAE: 3%

Based on the information available for these ingredients:

  • Compatibility: The active ingredients (Argireline, Pep Coll, and DMAE) are water-soluble liquids and can generally be mixed into a water-based gel like Aloe Vera Gel. They should be added in the final phase of mixing, ensuring the temperature is below 40°C.
  • Usage Rates: The concentrations you propose (10% Argireline, 3% Pep Coll, 3% DMAE) are within the recommended usage ranges for these specific ingredients.
  • Potential Irritation: While DMAE at 3% is within the recommended range, it's noted that concentrations above 5% may cause irritation, and even at 3%, it might not be suitable for thin or sensitive skin. Consider your skin type and potentially add ingredients that help reduce irritation if needed.
  • pH Consideration: Argireline requires the final formulation pH to be within the range of 3.5-6.5 for optimal stability and efficacy. You would need to check and adjust the pH of your final mixture to ensure it falls within this range.

Important Considerations:

While the ingredients appear compatible based on their general properties and recommended mixing instructions, creating a stable and effective cosmetic product requires careful formulation and testing. Factors like long-term stability, preservation, and skin feel should also be considered.

It is recommended to perform small-scale tests first to check for stability, appearance, and skin reaction before making a larger batch.