Natural Extract Usage in Serum and Calculation
Question
I would like to know the appropriate percentage of natural extracts to use in serums. For example, if I want to make a Cordyceps serum, what percentage of Cordyceps extract should I use? Also, regarding the calculation, if I use 3% extract in a 30-gram serum formula, does that mean I dissolve 0.9 grams of the extract in water?
Answer
Using Natural Extracts in Serums and Calculation
Generally, the amount of natural extract to use in a serum formula varies greatly depending on the type of extract, its concentration, and the desired results. There is no single fixed percentage that applies to all extracts.
- Typical Usage Range: Many natural extracts are commonly used within a concentration range of 0.5% to 10%. However, some highly concentrated extracts might be used at less than 0.5%, or some requiring high efficacy might be used at more than 10%.
- Supplier's Recommendation: The most important thing is to check the Recommended Usage Rate directly from the extract supplier. The supplier knows the concentration and efficacy of their specific extract best and will provide the appropriate and safe amount for use in various formulations.
Regarding your specific question about "Cordyceps," based on the product information in the system, a direct Cordyceps extract product is not currently listed. Therefore, I cannot provide a specific usage percentage for Cordyceps extract. If you have Cordyceps extract from another source, it is recommended to inquire about the usage information directly from that supplier.
Calculating the Amount of Extract
Your calculation for the amount of extract is correct.
If you want to use 3% of an extract in a serum formula with a total weight of 30 grams, the calculation is:
- Amount of extract needed (grams) = (Desired percentage / 100) * Total formula weight (grams)
- Amount of extract needed = (3 / 100) * 30 grams
- Amount of extract needed = 0.03 * 30 grams
- Amount of extract needed = 0.9 grams
So, you would need to use 0.9 grams of the extract to mix into a serum formula with a total weight of 30 grams. The other components in the formula (such as water, humectants, thickeners, preservatives, etc.) will collectively weigh 30 grams - 0.9 grams = 29.1 grams.