Answering Your Formulation Questions

Here are the answers to your questions regarding masking the odor of Panthenol and formulating a non-sticky gel with DMAE:

1. Masking the Odor of Panthenol (Vitamin B5)

Panthenol (Vitamin B5), including the ExtraLite™ type, can have a characteristic odor. To effectively mask this odor in your formulation, you can consider using deodorizing agents specifically designed to neutralize ingredient smells. Based on product information, the following deodorizers are suitable for this purpose:

• Citromask™ (Natural Deodorizer): This ingredient is noted for its ability to deodorize the smell of various chemical ingredients in cosmetic formulas.
• CleanTea™ Liquid (Green Tea Extract Deodorizer): This green tea extract is effective in suppressing various odors and can be used in cosmetic formulas to reduce ingredient smell.
• SugarClean™ (Sugarcane Extract Deodorizer): Derived from sugarcane extract, this deodorizer is effective in suppressing various odors and can also be used in cosmetic formulas to help reduce the smell of ingredients.

These options work by neutralizing or masking the unwanted odor rather than simply adding a fragrance.

2. Gelling Agents for Formulas Containing DMAE

Formulating gels with DMAE can be challenging, often resulting in a sticky texture, especially at higher concentrations. This is partly due to the nature of DMAE and its potential interaction with gelling agents, which can be sensitive to pH or electrolytes. To achieve a non-sticky gel texture in formulas containing DMAE, consider using gelling agents known for their tolerance to such conditions:

• AnyGel™: This water gelling agent is specifically highlighted for its good resistance to acid, alkali, and electrolytes. It also provides a gel texture that feels instantly absorbed and non-greasy, making it suitable for formulations with ingredients like DMAE.
• Sepimax Zen: This is a highly salt and pH tolerant thickener and emulsion stabilizer. Its robustness makes it a good candidate for challenging formulations containing ingredients that might affect pH or introduce electrolytes, like DMAE.
• Aristoflex AVC: This semi-solid gel-forming agent works in water formulas and can also help create a gel texture. While not specifically mentioned for electrolyte tolerance in its description, it is a versatile gel maker that might work depending on the overall formula composition.

Avoid gelling agents that are sensitive to electrolytes, such as SepGEL 305, as they may not perform well in the presence of DMAE.