Formulation for Acne & Oily Skin: High Active Concentrations and Splitting Formulas

Thank you for sharing your gel formulation for acne, oiliness, and brightening. Your formula includes several effective ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Ichthammol, Vitamin B3, GlucoBright, Zinc PCA, and Calendula Extract.

However, the concentrations of some active ingredients, particularly Salicylic Acid (10%) and Vitamin B3 (10%), are quite high. Combining these strong actives in a single formula, especially for daily use or as an overnight mask, could potentially cause significant skin irritation, dryness, or sensitivity, particularly for acne-prone and oily skin which can sometimes be reactive.

The staff's recommendation to split your goals into two separate formulas is a good approach to manage potential irritation and tailor the treatment:

1. Skin Nourishing & Oil Balancing Formula (for daily use):

   • Focuses on strengthening the skin barrier and controlling oil production.
   • Key ingredients include Vitamin B3 (5%), GlucoBright (4%), Zinc PCA (1%), and L-Carnitine (3%). These help reduce oiliness, minimize pores, improve skin tone, and support overall skin health.
   • Also includes Calendula Extract (5%) for soothing.
   • This formula is gentler and suitable for consistent daily application.

2. Clogged Acne Treatment Formula (for targeted/intermittent use):

   • Specifically targets clogged pores.
   • Uses Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (4%), which is a gentler, timed-release form of BHA compared to Salicylic Acid EZ™, reducing the risk of irritation.
   • Includes BioSulphur™ (5%) as a potentially more effective alternative to Ichthammol for acne treatment.
   • This formula is more potent and should be used as needed, adjusting frequency based on your skin's response and the amount of clogged acne. Avoid using it too often or for too long to prevent irritation.

Regarding your question about adding Hi-Quercetin® (5%): While Hi-Quercetin® has anti-inflammatory benefits, adding it to your original formula with already high active concentrations is not advisable as it would increase the risk of irritation. If you wish to incorporate it, it would be better to consider adding it to one of the staff's recommended formulas after you have tried them and assessed your skin's tolerance. Adding 5% Hi-Quercetin® would increase the total active percentage in whichever formula you add it to, so monitor your skin closely.

Following the staff's advice to observe your skin's reaction and adjust the usage frequency, especially for the acne treatment formula, is crucial for successful acne management without causing excessive irritation.