Improving Texture and Absorption of Serum and Lotion Formulations

Question

I have formulated two products and am experiencing issues with their texture and absorption:

1. Anti-Aging Serum

Formula:

Hyaluronic Acid (nano) 0.3%
Hyaluronic Acide (standard) 0.3%
Repair Activator 10%
Vit B3 2%
Pro Polymer Gel Maker 0.5%

Description: The texture is a clear gel with good viscosity, not sticky. When applied, it doesn't seem to absorb well, leaving a thin film on the skin. After about 1 minute, it dries down completely, feeling like nothing was applied (my skin is combination, leaning towards dry).

I would like to improve the feel by adding:

Oil
Humectants such as Glycerin and Propylene Glycol
Moisturizer such as Vitamin B5

2. Hand Moisturizing Lotion

Formula:

Ceramide 3%
Allantoin 0.4%
Shea Butter Light Oil 4%
Light Cream Maker 1%

Description: The lotion is white, quite liquid, not heavy, and not sticky. When applied, it doesn't seem to absorb well, only coating the skin. Shortly after application, it feels like nothing was applied (my skin is very dry).

I would like to consider adding ingredients similar to the recommendations for the serum formula.

Could you please provide recommendations to improve the texture and absorption of these two formulations?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Based on your formulations and the feedback regarding the skin feel, here are the recommendations to improve the absorption feel and the lasting sensation on the skin without being heavy or sticky, as advised by the staff:

For the Anti-Aging Serum:
The current serum feels like it doesn't absorb well, leaves a thin film, and dries quickly. To address this and provide a better skin feel that absorbs and leaves a hydrated sensation, it is recommended to add:

Shea Butter: 5%
Glycerin: 5%
Propylene Glycol: 5%
Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): 3%

These additions, including an oil (Shea Butter), humectants (Glycerin, Propylene Glycol), and a moisturizer (Vitamin B5), will help improve the feeling of penetration into the skin and leave a more comfortable, hydrated feel afterward, preventing the sensation of the product disappearing too quickly.

For the Hand Moisturizing Lotion:
The lotion is described as liquid, not heavy, not sticky, but doesn't feel like it absorbs well, only coats the skin, and feels like nothing is applied shortly after. To enhance the skin feel and moisturizing effect, it is recommended to:

Increase the percentage of Shea Butter Light Oil to 5-10%.

Increasing the oil content will help provide a more substantial and lasting moisturizing feel on the skin. You may also consider adding other ingredients similar to the recommendations for the serum (humectants like Glycerin or Propylene Glycol, and moisturizers like Vitamin B5) if further improvement in absorption and lingering feel is desired, while being mindful not to make the texture too heavy.

You can adjust your existing formulas by incorporating these recommended ingredients and percentages.