Primer Formulation with Oil Control, Coverage, and Pore Blurring
Question
I am trying to create a primer with oil control, coverage, and pore blurring properties. I have formulated the following:
- Cyclomethicone
- Isododecane
- Oil Film
- Polymethylsilsesquioxane
- Titanium Dioxide
- Zinc Oxide
- Iron Oxides
LipidSoft™ Lite(30%)SiliSolve™
Could you please review this formula and advise on its feasibility, potential issues, and how to achieve the desired texture and performance?
Answer
Your proposed primer formula is quite complex, especially for a beginner, combining many ingredients for oil control, coverage, and pore blurring. While it contains suitable components like Cyclomethicone, Isododecane, Oil Film for longevity, Polymethylsilsesquioxane for blurring/oil control, and Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides for coverage, there are potential challenges.
The high level of LipidSoft™ Lite (30%) might make the formula feel less matte than desired for oil control. The inclusion of SiliSolve™, a water-in-silicone emulsifier, is likely unnecessary in this water-free formula and could potentially cause stability issues.
Furthermore, incorporating the high total percentage of powders (Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides) requires thorough dispersion, typically needing equipment beyond hand stirring to avoid a gritty texture and ensure even results.
While the formula might be possible, it carries risks of instability and poor texture for a beginner.
A simpler approach, like the staff-recommended formula using Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear), Trisiloxane, Silicone Blender, and SelectSorb™ (PMMA), is generally much easier to execute and more stable. This base provides oil control and blurring.
If you want to add coverage to a simpler base, you can incorporate Titanium Dioxide EasyDisperse, Zinc Oxide EasyDisperse, and Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™. You would need to pre-disperse these powders thoroughly in a small amount of a compatible liquid (like Isododecane or Cyclomethicone) before adding them to the main base. Start with low percentages of pigments and adjust carefully.
It is recommended to start with a simpler formula and test small batches before attempting more complex combinations.
Related Products Mentioned
Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear, Super Silky)
Isododecane (Germany)
Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse™
Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™
LipidSoft™ Lite (Isononyl Isononanoate)
Silicone Blender
Mild Preserved Eco™ (Preservative-Free)
Trisiloxane