Achieving a Smooth, Non-Sticky Serum Gel

It's understandable that you're experiencing stickiness with Pro Polymer (Acrylate Crosspolymer). Based on its properties, Pro Polymer can indeed leave a slightly sticky or tacky feel, particularly in the first minute or so after application, similar to high molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid. This is a known characteristic of this type of polymer.

To create a serum gel that is smooth, easy to spread, and less sticky without using silicones, similar to The Body Shop's Drops of Youth, you can consider the following approaches:

• Adjust Pro Polymer Concentration: Try using a lower percentage of Pro Polymer in your formulation. Reducing the amount of thickener will decrease the overall viscosity and can help minimize the sticky sensation. You'll need to experiment to find the optimal level that provides the desired gel consistency without excessive tackiness.

• Explore Alternative Thickeners: Different gelling agents offer varying textures and skin feel. Consider trying other non-silicone thickeners that are known for providing a smooth, non-sticky feel. Options like Aristoflex AVC (Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer) or Sepimax Zen (Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6) are examples of synthetic polymers that can create clear gels and might offer a different, potentially less sticky, texture compared to Pro Polymer. Natural gums or cellulose derivatives could also be explored, though they can sometimes present formulation challenges.

• Combine Thickeners: You don't have to rely on just one thickener. Using a combination of Pro Polymer at a lower concentration with another complementary thickener might help achieve the desired viscosity and feel profile.

• Incorporate Slip Agents and Emollients: To improve the spreadability and reduce tackiness, include ingredients that enhance the skin feel. Propanediol (1,3-Propanediol), which is present in The Body Shop's Drops of Youth serum, is an excellent ingredient for improving slip and reducing the sticky feel of formulations. Adding a light, non-greasy emollient, such as Babassu Oil (Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil) also found in the reference product, can further enhance the smoothness and feel on the skin without the need for silicones.

Achieving the perfect texture often requires some experimentation with different gelling agents, their concentrations, and the inclusion of skin-feel enhancers. By adjusting your formulation and exploring alternative or complementary ingredients, you should be able to create a serum gel with a smoother, less sticky finish.