Optimal pH for Serum with Matrixyl 3000 and L-Ascorbic Acid

Asked by: kitkanokpat On: June 24, 2017 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

What is the optimal pH range when formulating a serum containing both Matrixyl 3000 (Pal-GHK, Pal-GQPR) and L-Ascorbic Acid, considering the stability and efficacy of both ingredients?

Answer

Optimal pH for Matrixyl 3000 and Vitamin C Serum

When combining Matrixyl 3000 (Pal-GHK, Pal-GQPR) with a Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) serum, the appropriate pH range is important for the stability and efficacy of both ingredients.

Based on the product information:

  • L-Ascorbic Acid: For optimal stability and effectiveness, L-Ascorbic Acid is typically formulated at a low pH, generally between 2.0 and 4.0. The FDA requires cosmetics applied to the skin to have a pH of at least 3.5.
  • Matrixyl 3000: The product description for Matrixyl 3000 does not specify a required pH range. Peptides are generally stable within a slightly acidic to neutral range.

Considering the requirements for both ingredients and suitability for skin application, a pH range that balances the needs of both actives is necessary.

The staff's suggestion of a pH range between 3 and 6.5 is a broad range that encompasses the optimal pH for L-Ascorbic Acid (especially the 3.5-4.0 range which is effective and less irritating) and is generally compatible with peptides like Matrixyl 3000.

For best results with L-Ascorbic Acid, aiming for the lower end of this range, specifically between 3.5 and 4.0, is often recommended as it provides good stability and efficacy while being reasonably well-tolerated by the skin. While Matrixyl 3000 may tolerate a higher pH within the 3-6.5 range, the stability of L-Ascorbic Acid decreases significantly above pH 4.0.

Therefore, when mixing Matrixyl 3000 with an L-Ascorbic Acid serum, target a final pH between 3.5 and 4.0 for optimal performance of the Vitamin C, which should also be compatible with Matrixyl 3000.