Formulation of Peeling Gel with Visible Clumping Effect and AHA

To create a peeling gel that produces visible "clumps" (simulating dead skin) while providing exfoliation, whitening, and moisture, you can use a specific chemical reaction between an anionic polymer and a cationic surfactant.

The Science of "Clumping"

The visible clumps are not actually all dead skin; they are a precipitate formed when Carbomer (anionic) reacts with Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC) (cationic). When you rub the gel on your skin, the mechanical action and the change in pH/concentration cause these two ingredients to bind together into small rubbery balls, which help physically lift away loosened dead skin cells.

Recommended Ingredients & Formula

1. Exfoliation & Whitening Phase:

• Glycopure™ (Glycolic Acid): A high-purity AHA that helps dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells.
• Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3): Enhances skin brightness and reduces yellowing/dullness.

2. Clumping & Texture Phase:

• Carbomer 940: The thickening agent that provides the gel structure and reacts to form clumps.
• Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC): The key ingredient that reacts with Carbomer to create the "clumping" effect.

3. Moisture & Preservation Phase:

• Glycerin: Provides deep hydration, ensuring the skin feels soft and not dry after scrubbing.
• Phenoxyethanol: A reliable preservative for the water-based formula.

Sample Formulation (Peeling Gel)

• Water: 85.5%
• Carbomer 940: 1%
• Glycerin: 5%
• Safe-B3™: 3%
• Glycopure™ (Glycolic Acid): 1% (Note: Use a small amount to avoid breaking the gel structure)
• Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC): 3.5%
• Phenoxyethanol: 1%

Mixing Instructions:

1. Disperse Carbomer 940 in water and stir until fully hydrated and clear (you may need a neutralizer like Triethanolamine to thicken it into a gel first).
2. Add Glycerin, Safe-B3™, and Glycopure™ into the gel and mix well.
3. Slowly add Cetrimonium Chloride (CTAC). You will notice the texture change; mix until uniform.
4. Add the preservative and mix.

Usage: Apply to dry skin, rub gently in circular motions until clumps form, then rinse off with water. Your skin will feel immediately smoother and look brighter.