Serum Base Formulation for Lightweight, Clear Gel Texture

To create a serum base that is lightweight, clear gel, fast-absorbing, and fluid, we recommend the following key ingredients:

Gelling Agents

1. AnyGel™ (Dehydroxanthan Gum)

   • Key Properties: This gelling agent provides a non-greasy texture, absorbs quickly, and dries instantly on the skin, which perfectly matches the desire for a fast-absorbing and lightweight serum. It also offers good resistance to acids, alkalis, and electrolytes.
   • Usage: Mix in water and blend or stir until dissolved to form a gel.

2. Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) (2000mPa.s) (Super Clear Gel)

   • Key Properties: This forms a non-ionic gel unaffected by electrolytes, making it suitable for formulations containing electrolytes. It yields a very clear gel ("Super Clear Gel") and can be used in formulations with a wide pH range (pH 3-9).
   • Usage: Warm water to 70 degrees Celsius, then gradually sprinkle HEC powder into the hot water while stirring or blending continuously until fully dissolved.

3. Carbomer 940 (EasyDisperse™)

   • Key Properties: This gelling agent can create a gel texture without heat, simply by adjusting the pH with an alkali (such as Triethanolamine). It's suitable for formulations requiring high clarity, especially if they contain a high proportion of ethyl alcohol.
   • Caution: It cannot tolerate electrolytes or highly acidic conditions (pH less than 5).

4. ThixoGel™ (Thixotropic Gel Maker)

   • Key Properties: This can create a thick yet fluid gel (thixotropic), meaning it's thick when at rest but flows easily when squeezed or pumped. This is ideal for serums that need to feel fluid and absorb quickly. It is resistant to acid-base and electrolytes.
   • Usage: Requires heat to dissolve while continuously stirring.

Detackifier

• WaterSil™ 8/12 (Water Gel Detackifier)
  • Key Properties: Although not a gelling agent itself, this is a crucial ingredient for reducing tackiness in clear, water-based gels. It helps the serum achieve a silky-smooth, non-sticky feel and enhances absorption, fulfilling the requirement for a lightweight and non-tacky serum.
  • Usage: Incorporate into the water phase at 40-60 degrees Celsius under gentle stirring.

The choice of gelling agent depends on other ingredients in your formula and the specific properties desired. For exceptional clarity and fast absorption, AnyGel™ and Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC) are excellent choices. Additionally, consider adding WaterSil™ 8/12 to achieve an even more perfect texture.