Salicylic Acid Precipitation in Gel

When you mixed 3% encapsulated water-soluble salicylic acid powder into the gel base and observed precipitation, the white solid particles you see are indeed the undissolved salicylic acid powder.

This precipitation significantly reduces the effectiveness of the salicylic acid. For salicylic acid to work on the skin (such as exfoliating or clearing pores), it needs to be dissolved or properly dispersed in the product so it can be absorbed or interact with the skin surface. When it has precipitated into solid particles that do not absorb, it cannot provide the intended benefits.

The amount of effective salicylic acid remaining in the gel is only the portion that managed to stay dissolved or properly dispersed. It is impossible to determine the exact percentage without laboratory analysis, but it will be significantly less than the initial 3% powder concentration you added.

The precipitation suggests an incompatibility between the specific encapsulated salicylic acid powder and the gel base you used, or that the solubility limit of the salicylic acid in that particular gel system was exceeded. Different gel bases (like AnyGel™ or SepGEL 305) have different properties and compatibility with active ingredients.

To achieve a stable and effective formulation, consider the following:

• Check compatibility: Ensure the specific type of encapsulated salicylic acid powder (such as Complex Salicylic Acid or ActiveRelease™ Salicylic Acid) is compatible with your chosen gel base.
• Reduce concentration: Try using a lower concentration of the salicylic acid powder.
• Choose a different type: Consider using a different form of water-soluble salicylic acid if available and suitable for your gel base.
• Choose a different gel base: Select a gel base that is known to be compatible with the salicylic acid type you are using.