Formulations for Acne and Oil Control Gels

Based on your skin concerns, which include oiliness, clogged pores, inflammatory acne, redness, and early signs of aging, and considering the expert feedback you received, the recommended approach is to focus on addressing the acne and oiliness first with two specific gel formulations. These two gels are designed to work together to clear clogged pores, reduce inflammation and redness, control oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier.

Below are the formulations for the two recommended gels, including the necessary preservative, along with instructions on how to mix them. The quantities are provided in grams for a total batch size of 100g for each gel.

1. BHA Gel for Clogged Pores

This gel utilizes Salicylic Acid EZ™ to help exfoliate the skin, clear clogged pores, and reduce acne breakouts.

Ingredients for 100g:

• Salicylic Acid EZ™: 10 g
• Pro Polymer™: 1 g
• NaturePreserve™ Ultra: 1.25 g
• Water: 87.75 g

Mixing Instructions:

1. Measure the required amount of water in a clean container.
2. Add Salicylic Acid EZ™ to the water and stir gently until it is completely dissolved and the liquid is clear.
3. Slowly sprinkle the Pro Polymer™ powder onto the surface of the liquid while stirring gently. Avoid using high-speed blending at this stage to prevent damaging the polymer.
4. Let the mixture sit for several hours (ideally 1 day) to allow the Pro Polymer™ to fully absorb the water and thicken into a gel.
5. After the gel has formed, blend slowly until you achieve a smooth, uniform texture. Do not over-blend.
6. Add NaturePreserve™ Ultra and stir until fully incorporated.
7. Ensure the final pH of the gel is within the range of 3-6 for optimal stability and efficacy of the ingredients.

2. Nourishing Gel for Skin Strength and Oil Control

This gel contains a blend of ingredients to reduce oiliness, strengthen the skin barrier, reduce redness, and calm inflammation.

Ingredients for 100g:

• Vitamin B3, Niacinamide (Safe-B3™): 5 g
• Pure MSM™: 3 g
• AcneBee: 5 g
• Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 1%, Water-Soluble): 1 g
• Zinc PCA: 1 g
• Pro Polymer™: 1.5 g
• NaturePreserve™ Ultra: 1.25 g
• Water: 82.25 g

Mixing Instructions:

1. Measure the required amount of water in a clean container.
2. Add Vitamin B3, Niacinamide (Safe-B3™), Pure MSM™, AcneBee, Licorice Extract, and Zinc PCA to the water. Stir gently until all the powder ingredients are completely dissolved.
3. Slowly sprinkle the Pro Polymer™ powder onto the surface of the liquid while stirring gently. Avoid using high-speed blending at this stage.
4. Let the mixture sit for several hours (ideally 1 day) to allow the Pro Polymer™ to fully hydrate and thicken into a gel.
5. After the gel has formed, blend slowly until you achieve a smooth, uniform texture. Do not over-blend.
6. Add NaturePreserve™ Ultra and stir until fully incorporated.
7. Ensure the final pH of the gel is within the range of 3-6 for optimal stability and efficacy of the ingredients. The optimal pH range for Zinc PCA is 4-6, and for Vitamin B3 is 4-7, so aiming for a pH between 4-6 is recommended.

Key Ingredient Benefits:

• Salicylic Acid EZ™: A water-soluble form of BHA that effectively exfoliates inside pores to remove clogs and prevent acne.
• Vitamin B3, Niacinamide (Safe-B3™): Helps reduce oil production, strengthens the skin barrier, minimizes redness and hyperpigmentation, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Pure MSM™: Aids in controlling oil production and can help improve skin flexibility.
• AcneBee: Helps reduce acne-causing bacteria or inflammation.
• Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A): Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant properties, helping to reduce redness and calm the skin. It also helps control oiliness.
• Zinc PCA: Reduces oiliness, helps accelerate wound healing (like acne scars), and has anti-inflammatory effects.
• Pro Polymer™: Acts as a gel-forming agent to create the desired texture for the serums.
• NaturePreserve™ Ultra: A natural preservative system to prevent microbial growth and keep the products safe for use.

Usage Recommendation:

Apply both gels morning and night after cleansing. Start by applying a thin layer of the BHA Gel, focusing on areas with clogged pores and acne. Follow with the Nourishing Gel over the entire face. Observe your skin's response. If you experience redness or peeling, reduce the frequency of the BHA Gel application (e.g., once a day or every other day) and apply a slightly thicker layer of the Nourishing Gel. Continue this routine consistently for at least two weeks to see improvements in acne and oiliness before considering adding other treatments for redness or aging concerns.