How to Make a Serum with Cordyceps Extract, Vitamin B3, Hyaluron, Zinc PCA, and HEC (No Blender)

Making a serum without a blender is possible, but requires careful technique, especially for dissolving the gelling agent like Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC).

Ingredients:

1. Cordyceps extract
2. Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide)
3. Double Hyaluron Liquid
4. Zinc PCA
5. Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (your chosen viscosity grade)
6. Glycerin
7. Glydant (preservative)
8. Distilled Water (enough to make up 100% of your formula)

Manual Mixing Procedure:

1. Prepare the Water Phase: Measure out the required amount of distilled water and Glycerin. Combine them in a clean container that can be gently heated (like a heat-resistant glass beaker or pot).
2. Disperse and Dissolve HEC: This is the most critical step for creating the gel texture.
   • While stirring the water/Glycerin mixture vigorously (using a spoon or stirring rod), slowly sprinkle the Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) powder onto the surface of the liquid. Sprinkle it in slowly to prevent clumping.
   • Continue stirring vigorously until the HEC powder is fully dispersed in the cold water and there are no dry clumps.
   • Gently heat the mixture to around 70°C while continuing to stir constantly. Maintain the temperature and stirring until the HEC is completely dissolved and the mixture thickens into a gel. This may take some time and continuous effort.
   • Once the gel has formed and the HEC is dissolved, remove the container from the heat. Continue stirring occasionally while the gel cools down to room temperature. Stirring during cooling helps ensure a smooth, uniform gel texture.
3. Add Water-Soluble Powders: Once the gel has cooled to room temperature, add the Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3) powder and the Zinc PCA powder. Stir well after adding each powder until it is completely dissolved. Ensure the pH of your mixture is within the optimal range for these ingredients (ideally between 4.0 and 6.0).
4. Add Liquid Actives: Add the Double Hyaluron Liquid and your Cordyceps extract to the gel mixture. Stir gently until they are evenly incorporated. Double Hyaluron Liquid should dissolve immediately.
5. Add Preservative: Finally, add the Glydant preservative. Stir gently to ensure it is evenly distributed throughout the serum.
6. Final Check: Stir the serum gently one last time. Check the consistency and clarity. If you have a pH meter or strips, check the final pH to ensure it is suitable for skin application (typically between 4.0 and 6.0 for this type of serum).

Important Notes:

• Ensure all powders are fully dissolved before moving to the next step.
• Maintain cleanliness throughout the process to avoid contamination.
• Store the finished serum in a clean, airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat.