Formulation Advice for Modifying Gly-Cu-Ec Serum

It's great that you enjoy the results from the Gly-Cu-Ec Serum formula! You can definitely incorporate the ingredients into the Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base to enhance hydration and skin feel. Here are the answers to your questions:

1) Compatibility with Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base

Based on the properties of the ingredients you listed and the Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base, most ingredients are water-soluble and compatible with a water-based gel system. The Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base is designed to be a versatile base for adding various ingredients.

However, it is important to consider the optimal pH range for the stability and effectiveness of some active ingredients, particularly:

• Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu): Stable in the pH range of 4.5-7.4.
• Adenosine Triphosphate: Dissolves in water with a pH in the range of 6.8-7.4.
• Safe-B3™ (Niacinamide): Optimal pH is in the range of 4.0-7.0.

To ensure the best stability for all these ingredients, the final pH of your modified serum should ideally be in the range where these overlap, which is approximately pH 6.8-7.0. The Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base itself is generally compatible with cosmetic ingredients, but you should check the pH of your final mixture and adjust if necessary to be within this optimal range.

Glycosaminoglycans Complex, Ectoine, Mild Preserved Eco™, Ethoxydiglycol, and Laurocapram (Water Soluble) are generally compatible with water-based systems and the expected pH range.

2) Need for Additional Thickener

The Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base already provides some gelling and a hydrating feel. Adding the listed ingredients might slightly reduce the overall viscosity depending on their form and concentration. If you desire a more "coated" feel without it being heavy like a cream, adding a small amount of a thickener like Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a good option.

This thickener is suitable for your formula because it:

• Works without needing heat.
• Is effective over a wide pH range (3-12), compatible with your target pH.
• Is used as a thickener in serums and gels.

A recommended starting usage rate for Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is typically 0.5% to 1.5%. You can start with a lower percentage (e.g., 0.5-1%) and adjust based on the desired texture.

3) Mixing Method

Mixing this formula can be done using a cold process at room temperature. This is recommended because some ingredients, such as Copper Peptide and Laurocapram (Water Soluble), are sensitive to high heat.

Simply add the calculated amounts of each ingredient to the Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are uniformly dispersed and dissolved. High shear mixing is not necessary. Ensure each ingredient is fully incorporated before adding the next, especially powders like Adenosine Triphosphate and Safe-B3™.

After mixing, check and adjust the pH to the optimal range of 6.8-7.0 for maximum stability and efficacy of the active ingredients.

By following these steps, you should be able to create a modified serum with enhanced hydration and a pleasant feel using the Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base and your chosen ingredients.