Penetration Enhancers (Ethoxydiglycol vs PE-1 Aqua) in Serum Formulation

Asked by: last_psychedelic On: October 28, 2015 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Based on the following serum formula, what percentage of Ethoxydiglycol should be used?

  • Vitamin B3 5%
  • NAG 4%
  • Pro Polymer 1%
  • Phenoxyethanol 1%
  • Water (remaining)

Answer

Based on the forum discussion, here is a summary of the answers to your questions:

Regarding adding PE-1 Aqua to the formula (Vitamin B3 5%, NAG 4%, Pro Polymer 1%, Phenoxyethanol 1%, Water):

  • Yes, adding PE-1 Aqua is suitable and will help improve the penetration of the ingredients in this formula.

Regarding using PE-1 Aqua and Ethoxydiglycol together in the same formula:

  • While it is possible to use both, it is generally not recommended. Using too many or too high concentrations of penetration enhancers can be counterproductive.

Regarding the difference in texture when using Light Cream Maker vs. Pro Polymer with PE-1 Aqua:

  • Pro Polymer: Gives a bouncy, jelly-like texture that might feel slightly sticky initially but absorbs after a moment.
  • Light Cream Maker: Gives a lighter, creamy texture, similar to a watery lotion.
  • You can also try combining both to achieve a texture you prefer.

Regarding using two formulas, both containing 3% PE-1 Aqua, concurrently:

  • The concern is primarily about the concentration of PE-1 Aqua in each individual formula, not the total amount applied from multiple products. If the concentration in each formula does not exceed the recommended limit (which is 3% in this case), it is considered acceptable.

Regarding using a formula with PE-1 Aqua concurrently with other formulas (with or without penetration enhancers like Ethoxydiglycol):

  • The provided replies do not contain specific information or test data on how using a formula with PE-1 Aqua concurrently with other formulas (either without penetration enhancers or with other enhancers like Ethoxydiglycol) would affect the absorption or penetration efficiency of either formula. This specific interaction effect is not addressed in the discussion.

Regarding the percentage of Ethoxydiglycol to use in the initial formula (Vitamin B3 5%, NAG 4%, Pro Polymer 1%, Phenoxyethanol 1%, Water):

  • In this specific formula, where the active ingredients (Vitamin B3, NAG) are already highly water-soluble, Ethoxydiglycol would provide very little additional penetration enhancement. Ethoxydiglycol is more effective as a solvent and carrier, particularly for ingredients that do not dissolve well in the formula base. For enhancing penetration of water-soluble actives like those in your formula, PE-1 Aqua is considered much more effective.