Maximum Percentage for Adding Extracts to Ready-Made Bases

Asked by: beautyhouse4085 On: June 30, 2022 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

What is the maximum percentage of extracts or other active ingredients that can be added to different types of ready-made cosmetic bases, such as Aloe Vera Gel, Cica Sleeping Mask Base, Water Sleeping Mask Base, and Absolue Soft Cream Base, without affecting their stability or texture?

Answer

Adding Extracts to Ready-Made Bases

The maximum percentage of extracts you can add to a ready-made base depends heavily on the specific base and the nature of the extract itself (e.g., water-soluble, oil-soluble, concentration). Adding too much can destabilize the base, change its texture, or reduce its effectiveness.

Here's what the descriptions indicate for the bases you listed:

  • Absolue Soft Cream Base (compare to Lancome): The recommended usage rate for this base is 90-100%. This means you can add a maximum of 10% of other ingredients in total, including extracts.
  • Aloe Vera Gel (Heavy): The description provides mixing instructions for adding liquid and powdered substances but does not specify a maximum percentage for total additives or extracts.
  • Cica Sleeping Mask Base (compare to Laneige): This base is designed to accommodate various active ingredients. It specifically mentions it can accommodate a maximum of 10% oil or silicone. It does not state a general maximum percentage for water-based extracts or other active ingredients, but adding large amounts of liquid extracts should be done cautiously to maintain stability.
  • Water Sleeping Mask Base (compare to Laneige): Similar to the Cica base, this base is ready to add various active ingredients. The description does not provide a specific maximum percentage for adding extracts or other active ingredients.

General Guideline:

When adding extracts or active ingredients to ready-made bases that don't specify a maximum percentage, it's generally advisable to start with lower concentrations (often 1-5% for many extracts) and observe the stability and texture of the final product. Avoid adding a very high percentage of liquid extracts, as this can thin the base or cause separation. Always test your formulation to ensure stability and desired performance.