Gel Formulation Issue and Solution

Based on the formulation and steps you provided, the issue with your gel not forming correctly and then separating is most likely due to the order in which you added the ingredients, particularly the gelling agent (Sponge Gel). Gelling agents need to be properly hydrated in the water phase before other ingredients are added to build a stable gel structure. Adding them later, especially after ingredients that might affect the system, can prevent them from working effectively.

Here is a revised mixing procedure that should help achieve a stable gel:

Revised Mixing Procedure

1. Hydrate Sponge Gel: Start by dispersing the Sponge Gel in the Rose Water. Stir well to ensure there are no clumps. Let this mixture sit for the recommended hydration time (check the supplier's instructions, typically 15-30 minutes) until the gel base is formed and appears smooth.
2. Prepare Other Water-Soluble Ingredients: In a separate container, combine the other water-soluble ingredients: Prebio-care, Hydro-Urea, Natural PHA, Glycerin, Vitamin B3, and your Red Powder colorant. Stir until everything is fully dissolved and uniformly dispersed.
3. Combine Phases: Slowly add the mixture from step 2 to the hydrated gel base (from step 1) while stirring gently but continuously. Ensure everything is well combined.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Add Reservoir-Tech and Adenosine Liposome. Continue stirring until all ingredients are uniformly dispersed throughout the gel. Pay close attention to ensure Reservoir-Tech is fully incorporated and no longer appears to be floating.
5. Final Mixing: Stir for a few more minutes to ensure the gel is completely homogeneous and smooth before pouring it into your container.

By hydrating the Sponge Gel first, you allow it to build the necessary structure to hold the other ingredients in suspension and create a stable gel.

Pink Powder Colorant Recommendations

You are currently using Red Powder (CI16255, CI14720). If you are looking for alternative pink powder colorants that are suitable for gel or cream formulations and provide a nice color, here are a few options based on their properties:

• Glow Pink (Water-Soluble, Fluorescent): This is a water-soluble fluorescent dye that dissolves completely in water. It will give you a vibrant, potentially fluorescent pink color in your water-based gel. Only a very small amount is needed as it is highly concentrated.
• Ultramarine Pink: This is a pigment powder that disperses in water (as well as oil, silicone, and powder). It provides an opaque pink color. Pigments don't dissolve but remain as fine particles dispersed throughout the product.
• Pretty Pink Mica: This is a mica powder that disperses in formulations. It provides a bright reddish-pink color with a pearlescent or shimmering effect. If you want your gel to have a subtle sparkle or sheen in addition to color, a mica like this would be suitable.

Choose the colorant based on the desired look – a vibrant, clear pink (Glow Pink), an opaque pink (Ultramarine Pink), or a shimmering pink (Pretty Pink Mica). Ensure you disperse or dissolve the colorant thoroughly before combining it with the main gel base.