Gel Bases for Eyelash Gel Formulation

Question

I am formulating an eyelash gel that contains `Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (Eye Preserved)`. I would like to know if Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) or Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) are suitable gel bases for this formula. The staff mentioned that HEC and HPMC do not sting the eyes but don't feel particularly comfortable, suggesting using Normal Saline (0.90% w/v NaCl in distilled water or DI water) as the water base for better eye comfort. Could you confirm if HEC and HPMC are suitable with `Polyaminopropyl Biguanide` and Normal Saline, and provide guidance on how to formulate this eyelash gel?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Gel Bases for Eyelash Gel with Polyaminopropyl Biguanide

Based on your question about using Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (Eye Preserved) in an eyelash gel, both Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) and Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) are suitable gel bases.

These ingredients are non-ionic thickeners that create a gel texture in water-based formulations and are compatible with electrolytes, which is important if you use Normal Saline.

For an eyelash gel, using Normal Saline (0.9% Sodium Chloride in distilled water) as the primary base liquid is recommended for better comfort around the eyes, as mentioned by the staff.

How to formulate:

Prepare your Normal Saline base using high-purity Sodium Chloride and distilled water.
Add your chosen gel thickener (HEC or HPMC) to the Normal Saline. Follow the specific mixing instructions for the type of HEC or HPMC you have, as some require heating to dissolve, while others like HPMC ColdMix™ can be dispersed in cold water and thickened by adjusting pH.
Once the gel base is formed, incorporate the Polyaminopropyl Biguanide into the water/gel phase at a usage rate of 0.1-1.0%. It is water-soluble and should mix in easily.

Always perform a challenge test on your final formulation to ensure the preservative system is effective.