Feedback on Gel Formulation

Dear User,

Thank you for sharing your proposed gel formulation for oily, sensitive, acne-prone skin with redness and large pores.

Here is some feedback on your formula:

• Beneficial Ingredients: Many of the ingredients you've included are excellent for your skin concerns. Vitamin B3, N-acetyl glucosamide, Vitamin B5, Allantoin, Betaine, and Centella Asiatica extract are known for their soothing, hydrating, barrier-repairing, and anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for acne, redness, and sensitive skin. Vitamin B3 and N-acetyl glucosamide can also help with pore appearance.
• Witch Hazel Concentration: The concentration of Witch Hazel at 50% is quite high. While Witch Hazel has astringent properties that can help with pores, such a high concentration might be drying or irritating, especially for sensitive skin. It is generally recommended to use Witch Hazel extract at lower concentrations, perhaps in the range of 10-20%. You might consider reducing the Witch Hazel and increasing the water phase accordingly.
• Preservation is Crucial: Your formula is water-based and does not include a preservative. It is absolutely essential to add a suitable preservative to prevent bacterial and fungal growth, which can spoil the product and be harmful to the skin. Please research and include an appropriate broad-spectrum preservative at the recommended usage rate.
• pH Adjustment: While most ingredients in your formula are stable and effective around the skin's natural pH (5.5-6.5), it is important to check the final pH of your finished product. Adjusting the pH to be within this range will ensure optimal efficacy and stability of the ingredients and be most comfortable for your skin.
• Veegum Ultra: Using 1% Veegum Ultra is a suitable concentration for creating a gel texture. As discussed previously, mixing it in warm water with continuous stirring or shaking will help it hydrate properly.

Summary Recommendation: Your formula has a good base of beneficial ingredients. The main points for improvement are to reduce the Witch Hazel concentration, add a suitable preservative, and check/adjust the final pH.

I hope this feedback is helpful as you refine your formulation!

Best regards,
Team MySkinRecipes