PE-1 Aqua: Effect on Oil-Soluble Actives and Dispersion in Water-Based Formulas

Regarding your first question about whether PE-1 Aqua reduces the absorption of oil-soluble active ingredients:

Yes, as mentioned in the product details and the previous reply, PE-1 Aqua is designed to enhance the penetration of water-soluble ingredients. Using it with oil-soluble active ingredients can actually decrease their absorption compared to not using any penetration enhancer. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to use oil-soluble active ingredients in a formula containing PE-1 Aqua.

Regarding your second question about whether PE-1 Aqua dissolves in water since the formula doesn't contain oil:

PE-1 Aqua itself is an oil-like substance (composed of natural terpenes). It does not dissolve in water. However, it can be incorporated into a water-based formula by using an emulsifier or thickener that can create an emulsion or dispersion. In the formula provided, Propolymer (acrylate crosspolymer) acts as a thickener and can help emulsify or disperse the PE-1 Aqua in the water phase, allowing it to be used in a formula without additional oils.