Formulation questions: Facial massage oil, preservative, and Squalane
Question
I have a few questions about formulating cosmetic products:
- When making a facial massage oil by mixing several types of oils, is it necessary to use Oil Blender?
- If using Paeonia Preserve as the sole preservative in a formula, should it be used at a level of 2% of the water content? Also, I'd like to know if it is non-irritating to the skin and also helps with Antioxidant properties.
- If I use Squalane (Olive) as part of the oil phase in a formula, is it better to use it alone rather than mixing it with other oils? My understanding is that Squalane is quickly absorbed, very gentle on the skin, and purer than other oils because it's extracted from olive oil. Is this understanding correct?
Answer
Formulation Questions Answered
Here are the answers to your formulation questions:
1. Using Oil Blender™ in Facial Massage Oil
For a simple facial massage oil made by mixing several types of oils, you generally do not need to use Oil Blender™. Oil Blender™ is primarily designed as a water-in-oil emulsifier or a blender for various oils and silicones, often used in makeup formulations or to improve the texture of oil-based products like butters. For a straightforward blend of liquid oils for massage, an emulsifier or blender is typically not required.
2. PaeoniaPreserve™ Usage and Properties
Yes, your understanding is largely correct. PaeoniaPreserve™ can be used as a single preservative in formulations at a rate of 2%. It is soluble in water. The product description also confirms that it contains substances with antioxidant properties. While the description doesn't explicitly state it's non-irritating, it is presented as a natural alternative to chemical preservatives. As with any cosmetic ingredient, especially preservatives, it is recommended to perform a challenge test on your final formulation before sale to ensure its efficacy and suitability.
3. Using Squalane (Olive) Alone or Blended
Your understanding of Squalane (Olive) is correct; it is known for being easily absorbed, gentle, pure, and derived from olive, possessing antioxidant qualities. Squalane is a versatile oil that can be used at concentrations from 1% to 100% in cosmetic formulations. You can certainly use Squalane (Olive) alone if you desire its specific lightweight feel and benefits. However, it can also be effectively mixed with other oils in a formula. The choice of using it alone or blending it depends on the desired texture, absorption rate, and the specific benefits you want the final oil blend to provide. Mixing it with other oils allows you to combine the unique properties of Squalane with those of other natural oils.
Related Products Mentioned
Squalane (Olive)