Gel Makeup Remover Formulation for Sensitive Skin: Suitability, Gentleness, and Mixing Steps
Question
I would like a one-step gel makeup remover that doesn't require a follow-up foam cleanse. The ingredients are as follows:
- Water 56%
- Glycerin 15%
- Butylene Glycol 10%
- PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate 5%
- Lauryl Glucoside 5%
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine 5%
- Xanthan Gum 1%
- Phenoxyethanol 1%
- Lactic Acid qs
- Panthenol 1%
- Chamomilla 0.5%
- Witch Hazel 0.5%
I wear foundation but not heavy makeup. I would like to ask:
- Is this formula suitable for removing makeup?
- Is the formula gentle? Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
- What are the steps for mixing all the ingredients?
Answer
Here is an evaluation of your gel makeup remover formula and mixing instructions:
Is the formula suitable for makeup removal?
Yes, this formula appears suitable for removing makeup, including foundation, in a single step. It contains a combination of surfactants (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Lauryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine) which are effective at dissolving and lifting makeup and impurities. The humectants (Glycerin, Butylene Glycol) help maintain skin hydration, and the thickener (Xanthan Gum) creates the gel texture.Is the formula gentle and suitable for sensitive skin?
The formula seems designed to be relatively gentle. Lauryl Glucoside and Cocamidopropyl Betaine are considered mild surfactants, and PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate is also a gentle cleansing agent. The inclusion of soothing ingredients like Panthenol, Chamomilla, and Witch Hazel further contributes to its mildness. However, sensitivity is highly individual. While the formula uses generally mild ingredients, some people with very sensitive skin might still react to certain components. It is always recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using the product extensively, especially if you have sensitive skin.What are the steps for mixing all ingredients?
Here is a general procedure for mixing this gel makeup remover formula:- Phase A (Water Phase): Combine Water, Glycerin, and Butylene Glycol in a beaker. Mix until homogeneous.
- Phase B (Thickener): In a separate small container, disperse Xanthan Gum in a small amount of Glycerin or Butylene Glycol from Phase A (or a tiny amount of water) to prevent clumping. Add this dispersion to Phase A while stirring continuously until the Xanthan Gum is fully hydrated and the gel thickens. Ensure there are no lumps. High-speed mixing might be helpful here.
- Phase C (Surfactants): Add PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Lauryl Glucoside, and Cocamidopropyl Betaine to the thickened gel base (Phase A+B). Mix gently to avoid excessive foaming, but ensure all surfactants are fully incorporated and the mixture is clear.
- Phase D (Actives/Additives): Add Panthenol, Chamomilla, and Witch Hazel to the mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
- Phase E (Preservative): Add Phenoxyethanol and mix well.
- Phase F (pH Adjustment): Measure the pH of the mixture. Slowly add Lactic Acid drop by drop, mixing after each addition, until the desired skin-compatible pH (typically between 5.0 and 6.0) is reached. "qs" means "quantum satis" or "as much as needed" to achieve the target pH.
- Final Check: Ensure the mixture is clear, homogeneous, and has the desired gel consistency. Package the product.
Always ensure all equipment is clean and sanitized before starting.
Related Products Mentioned
Glycerin (USP/Food Grade)
Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure)
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Lactic Acid (AHA) 88%
Lauryl Glucoside
Coco Wash™ (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate)