Gel Formulation Feedback for Oily, Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

Question

I have oily, acne-prone skin with clogged and inflamed acne, and my skin is sensitive and easily irritated. I've had a bad experience with BHA in the past. I've developed two gel formulas (one for reducing oiliness and acne, one for moisturizing and strengthening skin) and would appreciate your feedback on them. Are the mixing steps for these formulas correct? Are the ingredients suitable and effective for my skin concerns (oily skin, acne, clogged pores, sensitivity)? Will these formulas help dissolve existing clogged pores? Do you have any recommendations for improving the formulas, especially considering my sensitive skin and past reaction to BHA?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Hello. I understand you are concerned about clogged pores, inflamed acne, oily skin, and sensitive, easily irritated skin.

Regarding the oily and acne-reducing gel formula:

The mixing steps you described are correct.
Many of the ingredients you selected have properties that help reduce oiliness, fight bacteria, and reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for overall acne care. Although some ingredients have similar functions, using them together in this formula will help enhance the effectiveness in controlling oil and preventing new acne breakouts.
However, as the staff mentioned, this formula will not directly dissolve existing clogged pores. The existing ingredients focus on preventing new acne and reducing inflammation.
The staff recommends adding 5% Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) to this formula as well. It will help further control oiliness and nourish the skin to be stronger.
Since you have sensitive, easily irritated skin and had a bad experience with BHA, the staff recommends considering changing the preservative Phenoxyethanol to Mild Preserved™ (Ethylhexylglycerin) instead, to reduce the chance of irritation.
If clogged pores persist and you prefer not to use BHA, you might consider adding Azelaic Acid, which is another option that helps dissolve clogged pores and reduce inflammation, and is often less irritating than BHA. However, you should start with a low concentration.

Regarding the moisturizing and skin-strengthening gel formula:

The ingredients in this formula are suitable for moisturizing and strengthening the skin. This will help reduce irritation and strengthen the skin barrier effectively.
The staff recommends adding 5% Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) to this formula as well. It will help enhance skin strengthening, reduce irritation, and slightly help control oiliness, which is beneficial for your sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin.
Similar to the first formula, it is recommended to change the preservative from Phenoxyethanol to Mild Preserved™ (Ethylhexylglycerin) to reduce the chance of irritation.

Overall, both formulas you designed contain good ingredients suitable for your skin concerns. Adjusting according to the staff's recommendations (adding Vitamin B3, changing the preservative) will help make the formulas gentler and more effective in caring for sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin.