Reducing Stickiness in Gel and Cream Formulations
Question
Based on the issues encountered with my gel and cream formulations, what ingredients can be added to reduce stickiness and improve the texture?
My initial gel formulation:
- Aloe Vera Extract 3%
- Vitamin E Beads 1%
- Centella Asiatica Extract (Madecassoside 7.7%) 2% (Note: Adding this turned the clear gel white)
- Zinc PCA 1%
- Phenoxyethanol SA (Optiphen Plus) 1%
- Pro Polymer 2%
- Water (remainder) 90%
I also tried a cream formulation using ingredients from the gel list, but with Light Cream Maker. When I used Light Cream Maker at 1%, adding Phenoxyethanol SA 1% caused the cream to turn liquid. This did not happen when I used Light Cream Maker at 2%.
Answer
Ingredients to Reduce Stickiness in Gel and Cream Formulations
To address the stickiness you're experiencing with your gel or cream formulation, there are specific ingredients designed to improve the skin feel and reduce tackiness.
For water-based gels like the one you described, WaterSil™ 8/12 (Water Gel Detackifier) is an excellent option. This ingredient is specifically formulated to reduce the sticky or tacky feel in clear, water-based gels. It works by improving the glide and reducing the adhesive interaction between the gel and the skin, leaving a silky-smooth sensation without affecting the clarity of the gel. You can incorporate WaterSil™ 8/12 into the water phase at a usage rate of 0.1-3%.
Alternatively, silicone gels such as Silicone Gel (Medium Matte, Dimethicone Base) or Silicone Gel 5041 (e.q. BSG-5041, Dimethicone Base) can also help improve the texture and reduce stickiness, providing a soft, smooth, and light feel. However, these silicone gels are opaque and will make your gel formulation appear white or milky, unlike WaterSil™ 8/12 which maintains clarity. They are typically mixed into the oil phase or emulsion.
By adding a suitable detackifier like WaterSil™ 8/12, you can significantly improve the feel of your gel formulation, making it less sticky after application.
