How to Mix Phenoxyethanol and Mild Preserved™ in a Water-Based Gel

For a water-based facial gel formulation without alcohol, where you want to incorporate Phenoxyethanol and Mild Preserved™, and Mild Preserved™ is difficult to dissolve in water, here are the mixing methods:

Phenoxyethanol

Since Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure) is highly water-soluble, it can be added directly to the water phase at any step. The temperature should be below 80°C and the pH within the range of 2-9.

Mild Preserved™

There are several types of Mild Preserved™, some of which are more easily water-soluble or require different mixing methods. Based on the properties of different Mild Preserved™ variants:

• For Mild Preserved™ that is difficult to dissolve in water (e.g., Mild Preserved SC10™): It is recommended to pre-dissolve the Mild Preserved™ in a small amount of a water-miscible solvent such as Propylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, or Ethoxydiglycol. Then, add this solution to the finished gel base and stir to combine.
• For Mild Preserved™ that dissolves in water with blending (e.g., Mild Preserved Eco™ or Mild Preserved CGZ™): You can add it directly to the finished gel base, but you must blend thoroughly for about 5 minutes until it becomes clear.
• For Mild Preserved™ that is readily water-soluble (e.g., Mild Preserved™ COS): It can be added directly to the water phase, similar to Phenoxyethanol, or added in the final step of the gel formulation.

Steps for Incorporating into the Gel

1. Prepare your gel base according to your formula until it is complete.
2. In a separate container:
   • Measure the required amount of Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure).
   • Measure the required amount of Mild Preserved™.
   • If using a water-difficult-to-dissolve type of Mild Preserved™, dissolve it in a suitable solvent first.
3. Slowly add the preservative mixture (Phenoxyethanol and Mild Preserved™, potentially pre-dissolved in solvent, or the type that dissolves with blending) into the finished gel base.
4. Stir or blend at a moderate speed until all ingredients are well combined and the gel becomes clear (if using Mild Preserved Eco™ or CGZ™, blend for approximately 5 minutes).
5. Preservatives should ideally be added in the final step of the gel production to avoid prolonged exposure to high heat, which can affect the efficacy of some preservatives.

Important Notes

• Check the specific type of Mild Preserved™ you are using to choose the most appropriate mixing method.
• The usage rate of preservatives should follow the recommendations for each specific product, and a Challenge Test should be performed to confirm the preservation efficacy of the formula.