Formula Review and Suggestions

Your proposed gel formula for clear, acne-free, and hydrated skin is generally feasible. The ingredients you've chosen are commonly used in skincare formulations with beneficial properties.

Feasibility and Mixing Order

The ingredients can be combined to create a gel. Here is a suggested mixing order:

1. Water Phase: Start with the water (86%).
2. Thickener: Add the Organic Natural Thickener (ECOCERT) (0.5%) to the water and mix thoroughly until a gel texture is formed. The exact amount needed may vary depending on the specific thickener used, so follow the supplier's recommendations.
3. Water-Soluble Ingredients: Add WaterLock (1%), Acetyl L-Carnitine (3%), and Phenoxyethanol (0.5%) to the gel base. Mix until fully dissolved and evenly distributed.
4. pH Adjustment: Check the pH of the mixture. For optimal stability and efficacy of Centella Asiatica Extract (Madecassoside), the pH should be in the range of 4-6.5. Adjust if necessary using a suitable pH adjuster.
5. Centella Asiatica Extract: Add the Centella Asiatica Extract (Madecassoside) (5%) and mix well. Note that the typical recommended usage rate for Centella Asiatica Extract (Madecassoside 90%) is 0.1-2%. While 5% can be used, you may not see significantly increased benefits compared to a lower concentration, and it could potentially affect the texture.

Ensure each ingredient is fully dispersed or dissolved before adding the next.

Suggestions for Enhanced Efficacy

Based on your skin concerns (combination, dehydrated, dull, acne), you could enhance the formula by adding ingredients known for addressing these issues:

• For Hydration: To further combat dehydration, consider adding Hyaluronic Acid. Different molecular weights offer hydration at various skin depths. Standard or Large Molecule Hyaluronic Acid can provide excellent surface hydration and help create a pleasant gel texture.
• For Brightening and Skin Barrier: Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) is highly beneficial for combination and dull skin. It helps to brighten the complexion, reduce hyperpigmentation, minimize pores, regulate oil production, and strengthen the skin barrier, which is crucial for dehydrated skin.
• For Acne: While Centella helps with acne-related inflammation and scarring, adding a form of Salicylic Acid (BHA) can directly target acne by exfoliating the pores and reducing breakouts. Look for water-soluble forms like Liquid Salicylic Acid or Betaine Salicylate for easier incorporation into a gel formula.

Adding these ingredients would require adjusting the water percentage to maintain the total formula at 100% and ensuring compatibility and optimal pH for all components.

Always perform a small test batch to check for stability, texture, and efficacy before making a larger batch.