Ingredient Analysis for Brightening and Moisturizing Emulsion Formula
Question
Could you please analyze the following ingredient list for a cosmetic formulation? I would like to understand the function of the key components, the type of product, and the overall formulation structure.
Formulation Ingredients:
AQUA-GLYCERIN TRIETHYLHEXANOIN- CYCLOPENTASILOXANE PROPYLENE GLYCOL-CETEARYL OLIVATE- SORBITAN OLIVATE BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII-HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA WATER-NIACINAMIDE-DIMETHICONE-SODIUM POLYACRYLATE TRIDECETH-6-PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE-TOCOPHERYL ACETATE- TETRAHYDRODIFERULOYLMETHANE BIOSACCHARIDE GUM-1-XANTHAN GUM ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER- TRIETHANOLAMINE PHENOXYETHANOL CHLORPHENESIN PERFUME BHT-BENZOIC ACID
Answer
This formula is a brightening and moisturizing emulsion (cream or lotion), primarily focused on evening skin tone and providing antioxidant protection.
Key Active Ingredients:
- NIACINAMIDE (Vitamin B3): A multi-functional ingredient known for brightening, reducing blemishes, minimizing pores, and strengthening the skin barrier. (Related products: Safe-B3™, Extreme-B3™)
- TETRAHYDRODIFERULOYLMETHANE: A powerful, colorless derivative of curcumin (turmeric extract) that acts as a strong antioxidant and skin brightener, working synergistically with Niacinamide. (Related products: WhiteCumin™)
- TOCOPHERYL ACETATE (Vitamin E): An antioxidant that helps protect the skin and the formula's oils.
Base and Texture:
- The formula uses a combination of emollients like TRIETHYLHEXANOIN and BUTYROSPERRMUM PARKII (Shea Butter) for moisturizing.
- The texture is likely smooth and non-greasy due to the presence of silicones (CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, DIMETHICONE) and a polymer thickener system (SODIUM POLYACRYLATE, ACRYLATES CROSSPOLYMER).
- Emulsification is achieved using a PEG-free system (CETEARYL OLIVATE, SORBITAN OLIVATE) combined with a silicone emulsifier (PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE), ensuring good stability.
Other Notable Ingredients:
- HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA WATER (Witch Hazel): Used as an astringent and soothing agent.
- BIOSACCHARIDE GUM-1: A moisturizing and soothing agent.
- TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA): Used to adjust the pH, ensuring the formula is skin-friendly and stable for Niacinamide.
- Preservative System: Uses a robust combination of PHENOXYETHANOL, CHLORPHENESIN, and BENZOIC ACID.
- PERFUME and BHT: The formula contains added fragrance and BHT (an antioxidant), which may be a consideration for highly sensitive skin.