Incorporating Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin B3 into HEC Gel and Preventing Foam

Regarding the preparation of a facial gel using Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) mixed with Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin B3, here are some considerations and guidelines:

1) Mixing Time and Speed for Incorporating Actives

When mixing Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin B3 into the prepared HEC gel, high mixing speed is not necessary, and there is no fixed duration. You should mix at a low speed or stir gently with a standard mixer until the active ingredients are completely dissolved and uniformly distributed throughout the gel. Using a low speed will also help reduce foam formation.

2) How to Prevent Foam During Mixing

Foam formation is a common issue when preparing gels with HEC because HEC requires relatively vigorous stirring or blending to dissolve and form a complete gel structure. However, when you are incorporating the active ingredients (Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin B3) into the already prepared HEC gel, you should use gentle stirring or low-speed mixing to minimize air incorporation into the gel, which is the primary cause of foam.

If foam still occurs, you can address it by:

• Letting the gel rest: After mixing, let the gel sit for a while (perhaps 2-3 hours or overnight) to allow the foam to gradually rise and dissipate.
• Refrigeration: Storing the gel in the refrigerator can also help the foam subside more quickly.

Additional Considerations

• Heat: HEC typically requires hot water (around 70°C) to dissolve and form a gel. This heat might affect the stability of some active ingredients like Alpha Arbutin and Vitamin B3, which can degrade easily at high temperatures.
• Alternative Gel Makers: Some gel-forming agents, such as Pro Polymer, can form a gel easily without heat and require only low-speed mixing. This helps reduce issues related to heat and foam. Additionally, Pro Polymer can help emulsify small amounts of oil, which might improve skin absorption compared to cellulose or gum thickeners that are only water-soluble.
• Preservatives: Be cautious when using certain preservatives like Phenoxyethanol, which can cause cloudiness in gels thickened with HEC.

In summary, when incorporating active ingredients into HEC gel, mix gently until dissolved. To reduce foam, use low-speed mixing for the actives or let the gel rest/refrigerate to allow foam to dissipate.