Ingredient Alternatives

For Ceramide 2 (Ceramide NG)

Ceramide NG is a type of ceramide that helps restore the skin's natural barrier function. If Ceramide 2 (Ceramide NG) is not available, you could consider other ceramide products or complexes that offer similar skin barrier benefits.

Potential alternatives include:

• Cera-Flux VX (Water Dispersible Ceramide Complex, 5 Types): This complex contains multiple ceramides, including Ceramide NS/Ceramide NG, making it a relevant option. It is water dispersible and suitable for moisturizers.
• Ceramide Complex (Water/Oil Dispersible Powder): This complex contains Ceramide NP and is designed to be dispersible in both water and oil phases, helping to restore the skin barrier.
• Ceramide 3 (Ceramide NP) or Ceramide 6-II (Ceramide AP): These are individual ceramide types that also contribute to the skin barrier. Using a complex might provide a broader range of ceramide benefits, but these individual ceramides could also be considered depending on the specific formulation needs.

When substituting ceramides, consider the recommended usage rate and solubility of the alternative product, as these can vary significantly.

For Clay Thick (likely Magnesium Aluminum Silicate)

Magnesium Aluminum Silicate is typically used as a rheology modifier or thickener, often providing suspension properties and contributing to the texture of creams and lotions.

Potential alternatives that function as thickeners or rheology modifiers include:

• Disteardimonium Hectorite: This is a clay-based rheology modifier commonly used in cosmetic formulations, particularly in oil or silicone phases, to provide thickening and stability.
• Stearalkonium Hectorite: Similar to Disteardimonium Hectorite, this is another clay-based thickener that provides stability and texture.

Note that substituting a thickener requires careful consideration of the original formula's phase (oil, water, or silicone) and the desired final texture, as different thickeners work in different ways and at different concentrations. Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate was also found in the search but is primarily used as an anti-settling agent in clear, liquid formulas, so it may not be suitable for thickening a cream.

Substituting ingredients in a formulation requires testing to ensure compatibility, stability, efficacy, and desired sensory properties. It is recommended to consult the product descriptions and technical data for the suggested alternatives to understand their properties and usage guidelines.