Preservation of Serum with Repair Activator Powder and Extracts

Subject: Regarding the use of Repair Activator Powder

Hello,

Thank you for your inquiry regarding the use of Repair Activator Powder and preservation in your serum formulation.

1. Does adding Repair Activator Powder require additional preservatives?
   Yes, adding ingredients like Repair Activator Powder (Bifida Ferment Lysate), PiteraEx (Saccharomyces Lysate Extract), and HydroAlgae (Hydrolysed Algin, Chlorella Vulgaris) increases the need for effective preservation. These ingredients, particularly fermentation lysates and extracts, are rich in nutrients that can support microbial growth and lead to spoilage if not adequately protected.

2. Is 1% Mild Preserved Eco sufficient, or do I need to add more or use a different preservative?
   Based on the ingredients you've added and the spoilage observed (orange layer, darkening), it is likely that 1% Mild Preserved Eco is not sufficient to preserve this complex formula, especially without refrigeration. Mild Preserved Eco (Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol) is often used as a preservative booster or in combination with other preservatives. Formulations containing fermentation products and extracts typically require a more robust or broader-spectrum preservative system.

The color change and darkening you observed are strong indicators of microbial contamination or degradation due to insufficient preservation. While refrigeration can slow down spoilage, it does not replace the need for proper preservation in the formula itself for long-term stability.

Recommendation:
To prevent spoilage and ensure the stability and safety of your serum, you should consider:

• Increasing the concentration of Mild Preserved Eco (check the maximum recommended usage rate).
• Using a different, stronger, or broader-spectrum preservative system that is effective against a wide range of microorganisms and suitable for formulas containing fermentation products and extracts.
• Performing microbial challenge testing on your final formulation to confirm the efficacy of your chosen preservative system.

Please consult the usage guidelines for Mild Preserved Eco and consider other preservative options available to find the best fit for your specific formula and desired shelf life.