Reducing Eye Irritation in Cleansing Water Formula
Question
I am developing a cleansing water formula using the following ingredients:
- Coco Wash (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate)
- Make-up Wash (PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides)
When the product gets into the eyes, it causes a stinging sensation. I also measured the pH using litmus paper and it showed a yellow color.
How can I reduce the eye irritation in this formula? Is the pH the issue, or is it related to the ingredients used?
Answer
Hello,
Thank you for consulting us.
The stinging sensation you experienced when the cleansing water entered your eyes is likely due to the surfactants (Coco Wash and Make-up Wash) in the formula. Surfactants, especially at higher concentrations, can cause irritation to the sensitive eye area.
As the staff recommended, you can try reducing the concentration of Coco Wash (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate) and Make-up Wash (PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides) in your formula to around 3-5% each. This should help reduce the irritation.
However, it's important to note that formulations of this type (micellar water/cleansing water) may still cause some degree of eye irritation for some individuals, even at lower surfactant concentrations.
If you require a formula that is completely non-irritating to the eyes, the staff suggested considering a cleansing oil formulation using Oilsify 15. Cleansing oils are often gentler for removing eye makeup.
Regarding the pH you measured, a yellow reading on litmus paper typically indicates an acidic pH. While the high concentration of surfactants is the primary cause of irritation in this case, pH can also play a role. Formulations intended for use around the eyes are ideally formulated to a pH close to that of natural tears (around 7.0-7.4) to minimize irritation. Adjusting the pH towards neutral might also help, but reducing the surfactant concentration is the key recommendation from the staff.
We hope this helps!
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