Formulation Questions Answered

Here are the answers to your questions about the cosmetic formulation:

• Colors (Yellow 5, Red 40): Yes, Yellow 5 (Cl 19140) and Red 40 (Cl 16035) are cosmetic colorants. They are used to give the product a specific color and do not contribute to the product's function or efficacy. You can omit them if you do not wish to color your product.
• Sodium Silicate and Magnesium Silicate:
  • Sodium Silicate functions similarly to ingredients like MatteSilica. It provides a smooth feel and can help temporarily blur the appearance of fine lines on the skin's surface. This effect is visual and washes off.
  • Magnesium Silicate is used as a gelling agent to create the product's texture.
  • You can omit Sodium Silicate if you don't need the temporary blurring or slip effect. Magnesium Silicate can be replaced with other suitable gelling agents if desired.
• Pep-Coll and Matrixyl 3000: It is generally not recommended to use Pep-Coll and Matrixyl 3000 together in the same formulation. While it is not harmful, they have similar mechanisms of action (stimulating collagen synthesis). Using both will likely not provide significantly increased efficacy compared to using one at the recommended concentration, but it will increase the cost of your formula. It is better to choose one or the other.
• Preservatives (Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin): Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin are both preservatives. The original formula likely uses both to achieve broad-spectrum preservation while minimizing potential irritation. Phenoxyethanol is effective against bacteria but can be irritating at higher concentrations. Ethylhexylglycerin is milder and helps boost the efficacy against fungi, allowing for a lower concentration of Phenoxyethanol. You can potentially use a single, broad-spectrum preservative blend as an alternative. Products like Mild Preserved Eco (containing Ethylhexylglycerin and Propanediol) or Mild Preserved COS (containing Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, and Caprylyl Glycol) are examples of blends designed to provide effective preservation with good skin compatibility. Phenoxyethanol SA (containing Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, and Sorbic Acid) is another broad-spectrum option.
• Adding Centella Asiatica Extract (Madecassoside): Yes, you can add Centella Asiatica Extract (specifically the Madecassoside 90% concentration) to your formulation. It is known for stimulating collagen production (Type I and III), reducing wrinkles, tightening skin, helping with scars and redness, and reducing inflammation. Its mechanism of action is different from peptides like Argireline and Matrixyl 3000, making it suitable for use alongside them for potentially enhanced results. The staff confirmed that this product has arrived in Thailand and is expected to be available in stock soon.
• Other Potential Additions: Depending on your desired product benefits, you could consider adding other ingredients such as:
  • Hydrating agents (e.g., Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin)
  • Antioxidants (e.g., Vitamin C, Vitamin E)
  • Skin-soothing agents (in addition to Centella Asiatica)