Melasma and Freckle Cream Formulation

You are interested in using Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract (Oxyresveratrol), Alpha Arbutin, Green Tea Extract (EGCG), and either Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) or Vitamin B5 (Panthenol).

• Ingredient Compatibility: As confirmed earlier, these active ingredients are generally compatible for use in a single formulation designed to target melasma and freckles.
• Heat and Mixing: The need for heat and the type of mixing required (hand vs. machine) depend entirely on the Cream Maker or Gel Maker you choose to form the base of your cream.
  • Some cream bases require heating oil and water phases separately before combining and mixing.
  • Gel bases or cold-process emulsifiers often do not require heat.
  • For making a larger batch to share, using a mixer (even a small one) is highly recommended to ensure all ingredients are evenly dispersed and the texture is consistent throughout the batch.

Sample Active Ingredient Concentrations

Here are typical usage rates for the active ingredients you selected, based on their product descriptions. You would incorporate these into your chosen cream or gel base formula.

• Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract (Oxyresveratrol 98%): 0.1 - 0.5% (Dissolve in glycol first, can use gentle heat below 60°C briefly if needed, add to formula)
• Alpha Arbutin (Switzerland): 0.2 - 2% (Recommended 2% for best whitening results. Water-soluble. Add in the final step below 30°C. pH should be 3.5-6.5, avoid pH above 8).
• Hi-EGCG™ (Green Tea Extract): 1 - 5% (Water-soluble liquid. Add in the final step below 40°C. pH should be 4.0-6.5. Protect from light and metal ions - consider using ActiveProtec™ OX).
• Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide): 1 - 10% (Recommended 5%. Water-soluble powder. Can be mixed in water phase, withstands heat but avoid prolonged heating. Optimum pH 4.0-7.0).

• D-Panthenol Care (Pro-Vitamin B5): 1 - 10% for skin (Recommended 1-3%, over 5% can be sticky). Water-soluble liquid. Mix in water phase, withstands heat briefly. Optimum pH 3.5-7.0.

• Note: You can choose to include Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, or both at lower concentrations depending on your desired formula properties (B3 for brightening/barrier/oil control, B5 for hydration/soothing/healing).*

General Mixing Steps

This is a general outline. Always follow the specific instructions for your chosen Cream Maker or Gel Maker.

1. Prepare Water Phase: Weigh and combine all water-soluble ingredients (water, humectants, Alpha Arbutin, Vitamin B3/B5, Green Tea Extract, etc.). If using Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract powder, dissolve it in a suitable glycol (like Propylene Glycol) first.
2. Prepare Oil Phase: Weigh and combine all oil-soluble ingredients (oils, butters, emulsifiers/cream makers).
3. Create Base: Follow the instructions for your Cream Maker/Gel Maker to combine the phases and create the cream or gel texture. This is where heat may be applied depending on the base. Mix until uniform.
4. Cool Down: If heat was used, allow the mixture to cool to the temperature recommended for adding heat-sensitive ingredients (typically below 40°C or 30°C, check individual ingredient instructions).
5. Add Actives: Add the prepared active ingredients (dissolved Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract, Alpha Arbutin, Green Tea Extract, Vitamin B3/B5) to the cooled base. Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed.
6. Add Preservative: Add the chosen preservative at its recommended usage rate.
7. Adjust pH: Check the pH of the final product and adjust it to the optimal range for your active ingredients (generally between pH 4.0-6.5 for this combination).
8. Final Mixing: Mix briefly to ensure everything is fully incorporated.

Preservative Recommendation for Larger Batches

For making a larger quantity to share, using an effective preservative is essential to prevent microbial growth and ensure product safety and shelf life.

A suitable option is Mild Preserved™ COS.

• It is a broad-spectrum preservative effective against bacteria, yeast, and mold.
• It works in a wide pH range (pH 2-8), which is suitable for your active ingredients.
• It is water-soluble and odorless.
• It can be added at any step of the formulation process, as long as the temperature is below 45°C.
• Recommended usage rate is 0.75-1.5%.

Remember that proper hygiene during the making process and suitable packaging (like opaque containers for light-sensitive ingredients like Green Tea Extract and Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract) are also important for product stability and safety.