Addressing Gel Lumps in Mandelic Acid Formulation

The small gel lumps you are experiencing likely occur because the Pro Polymer gel maker is sensitive to electrolytes. Sodium Bicarbonate, which you are using to adjust the pH, contains sodium ions, which are electrolytes. When Pro Polymer is added to a solution that already contains electrolytes, it can interfere with its ability to properly hydrate and form a smooth, uniform gel structure, leading to clumping or small undissolved particles.

The staff's suggestions provide two effective ways to overcome this issue:

Solution 1: Adjust the Mixing Order

Changing the order in which you add ingredients can significantly improve the gel texture. Instead of adding the gel maker last, create your gel base first before incorporating the ingredients that contain electrolytes.

Recommended Steps:

1. Take about 70% of the total Water amount.
2. Slowly sprinkle the Pro Polymer powder into this portion of water while stirring or blending gently (avoid high speed which can damage the polymer). Continue mixing until a smooth gel is formed. As the product description notes, Pro Polymer may take time to fully hydrate, and sometimes letting it sit for a period after initial dispersion can help.
3. In the remaining 30% of the water, dissolve the Mandelic Acid.
4. Carefully add Sodium Bicarbonate to the Mandelic Acid/water solution from step 3 to adjust the pH to your target of 5.
5. Slowly add the Mandelic Acid/Sodium Bicarbonate solution from step 4 into the pre-formed Pro Polymer gel from step 2, mixing gently until fully combined and uniform.
6. Finally, add the Mild Preserved Eco and mix.

This method allows the Pro Polymer to hydrate and build its gel structure in a low-electrolyte environment before the electrolytes from the Sodium Bicarbonate are introduced.

Solution 2: Change the Gel Maker

Another effective approach is to use a gel maker that is more tolerant of electrolytes.

• Replace Pro Polymer with AnyGel (Dehydroxanthan Gum).
• AnyGel is specifically noted for its good resistance to acid, alkali, and electrolytes. This makes it a more stable choice for formulations containing ingredients like Mandelic Acid (acid) and Sodium Bicarbonate (electrolyte).
• Similar to the first solution, it is generally easier to create the gel base with AnyGel in water first before adding other ingredients, especially those containing electrolytes.

By implementing either of these solutions, you should be able to achieve a smoother gel texture without the small lumps upon application.