Questions about DIY 15% Ascorbic Acid Cream Formulation

Asked by: spark_za On: August 28, 2012 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Regarding the 15% Ascorbic Acid cream formulation found on the webboard, I have the following questions:

  1. How can I measure the ingredients, as each type is used in very small amounts? Is it possible to make it without a digital scale?
  2. Where can I buy distilled water?
  3. If I use Seppiplus 400 instead of Laureth-23, will the product texture become much thicker? (My skin is oily and acne-prone).
  4. Can I add other moisturizers/anti-irritant ingredients such as Allantoin, Beta Glucan, or Aloe Vera?
  5. Can I do all of this at home, or do I need to do it in a university lab (I have a relative studying near my home)?

Answer

Based on the staff's replies, here are the answers to your questions:

  1. Measuring: It is recommended to use a digital scale with a precision of 0.01g for accurate measurement of small amounts of ingredients. It would be difficult to measure accurately without one.
  2. Distilled water: The staff recommends purchasing distilled water from the Government Pharmaceutical Organization (องค์การเภสัช) if possible. Alternatively, you can buy distilled water from gas stations intended for car use, but choose a reliable source as some might sell regular tap water.
  3. Seppiplus 400 vs Laureth-23: Using Seppiplus 400 instead of Laureth-23 will result in a product that is opaque white and thicker, rather than a clear liquid gel. The staff does not recommend this substitution.
  4. Adding other ingredients: Due to the high acidity of the product (pH 3.5), adding other ingredients like Allantoin, Beta Glucan, or Aloe Vera is generally not recommended as they may not be stable at such a low pH. Adding them might lead to instability and wasted ingredients. If you still wish to add them, you should verify their stability in highly acidic conditions first.
  5. Location for mixing: You can perform the mixing at home. It is not necessary to use a university lab; having a digital scale is sufficient.