Non-Greasy Moisturizing Ingredients

Asked by: contact On: January 16, 2019 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I am looking for moisturizing ingredients that are not sticky.

Currently, I am using Sodium PCA and Hyaluronic Acid. Are there any other options I can add to my formulation?

Specifically:

  • Is Inositol (Rice Vitamin) sticky?
  • Ingredients like B5, Sodium Lactate, and Glycerin feel very sticky if used in high amounts. What are the alternatives or considerations for these?

Answer

Non-Greasy Moisturizing Ingredients

You're looking for moisturizing ingredients that don't feel sticky, in addition to Sodium PCA and Hyaluronic Acid. You're right that Sodium PCA is a great non-greasy option, and Hyaluronic Acid's texture can vary depending on its molecular weight and concentration.

Here are some options and information based on your questions:

  • Hyaluronic Acid: As you've experienced, Hyaluronic Acid is effective. To minimize stickiness while maximizing hydration, you can use a combination of different molecular weights. Lower molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid penetrates deeper without significant surface feel, while higher molecular weight provides surface hydration and can contribute to a gel texture. The Hyaluronic Acid Gel Base is specifically formulated to be a light, non-greasy base.

  • Glass Moist™: This is an excellent oil-free moisturizer designed to provide hydration and a 'Glass Skin' look without feeling oily or clogging pores. It's a good option if you want a non-greasy feel.

  • VersaMoist™: This ingredient is known for its versatile moisturizing properties and its ability to improve formula texture and reduce stickiness. It can be dissolved in both water and oil phases.

  • Regarding Inositol (Rice Vitamin): Based on the product descriptions available, I cannot confirm whether Inositol has a sticky feel.

  • Regarding B5, Sodium Lactate, and Glycerin: You are correct that these ingredients, particularly Glycerin and Sodium Lactate, can feel sticky, especially at higher concentrations. This is a common characteristic of many humectants. Using them at lower recommended percentages or combining them with ingredients that improve texture (like VersaMoist™) can help mitigate the sticky feeling while still providing hydration. PreB5™ is a precursor to Vitamin B5 and is also a moisturizer.

To achieve a non-greasy feel, focus on ingredients known for lighter textures or those that specifically help reduce stickiness in formulations. Combining different types of humectants and emollients at appropriate concentrations is key.