Rose Hip Oil Alternatives, Silicone Compatibility, and Scent Masking

Asked by: maigonix On: June 16, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I'm looking for recommendations for lightweight oils that have a texture similar to or lighter than Rose Hip Oil. I'd also like to know:

  • Can pure natural oils be mixed directly with silicones like Cyclopentasiloxane to create a lighter feel?
  • If not, what types of ingredients mix well with silicones for this purpose (e.g., esters like Caprylic/capric triglyceride)?
  • Can Tea Tree Oil be used to mask the specific scent of Rose Hip Oil? What is the safe and effective concentration for facial application to achieve scent masking?

Answer

Based on the discussion:

Lightweight Oils Compared to Rose Hip Oil:

  • Squalane is lighter than Rose Hip Oil.
  • Argan Oil is similarly lightweight and fast-absorbing, comparable to Rose Hip Oil.
  • Fractionated Coconut Oil is similar in weight to Rose Hip Oil, not significantly lighter.
  • Grape Seed, Safflower, and Jojoba oils are generally heavier than Rose Hip Oil.

Mixing Cyclopentasiloxane with Oil:

  • Pure natural oils do not mix directly with silicones like Cyclopentasiloxane.
  • Silicones mix well with esters (such as Caprylic/capric triglyceride, which is a component often referred to as Fractionated Coconut Oil in ingredient lists). Formulations aiming for a very light feel often use a blend of esters and silicones. Natural oils can be added to such blends, but large amounts might require an emulsifier.

Using Tea Tree Oil for Scent Masking:

  • Tea Tree Oil has a strong scent and can mask other smells at high concentrations.
  • However, for general facial application, the safe concentration is very low (typically <= 0.5%) due to irritation risk. This low level may not be enough to mask the scent of natural oils like Rose Hip Oil. Higher concentrations are possible but should be used cautiously or in specific applications.