Formulation Texture Issue: Sticky and Hard to Spread

It appears you are experiencing a common issue with formulations designed for enhanced skin penetration, often referred to as transdermal bases like the "TransDerm A" and "TransDerm B" components you used. These bases are specifically formulated to help active ingredients penetrate the skin effectively, and their texture can often be thick, sticky, or feel like it forms a film on the skin, which is consistent with your description of it feeling like glue and drying quickly.

This texture does not necessarily mean the active ingredients are not being absorbed. The base itself is designed to facilitate the delivery of ingredients such as Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline), Pal-GHK, Pal-GQPR (Matrixyl 3000), and Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) into the skin. Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 works to reduce muscle tension that causes wrinkles, Pal-GHK, Pal-GQPR helps stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin elasticity, and Vitamin B12 is known for its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties.

To improve the spreadability and reduce the sticky feeling, you can try adjusting the formulation by carefully adding a small amount of water. This can help to lower the viscosity and make it easier to apply. However, it is crucial to add water gradually and mix thoroughly to avoid potentially destabilizing the base, which could cause the formula to separate.

Start by adding a very small percentage of water (e.g., 1-2%) to a small test batch of your formulation and mix well. Evaluate the texture and spreadability. If it is still too thick, you can add slightly more water, but be cautious not to add too much, as this could compromise the stability and effectiveness of the formulation.

Remember that the primary function of this type of base is delivery, so a slightly different feel compared to traditional creams or lotions is expected.