Serum Formulation for Dark Spots, Acne Marks, and Oily Skin

Asked by: icuicuic4u On: February 28, 2017 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I have developed a serum formulation for dark spots, acne marks, and oily, acne-prone skin. I used ingredients including:

  • Niacinamide 10%
  • Zinc PCA
  • Silicone Gel 10%
  • Acetyl Glucosamine
  • Sym-White
  • ODA-White Plus
  • MSH White Absorb
  • Licorice
  • Ume

The resulting texture is a not-too-thick, off-white/yellowish serum-cream that is easy to pump. Could you please review this formulation and provide feedback, especially regarding effectiveness and potential irritation?

Answer

Subject: Re: Serum Formulation Advice

Hello,

Congratulations on successfully formulating your serum and achieving the desired texture!

Regarding the formula you've created, it is a very potent formulation specifically designed to address dark spots and acne marks, and it includes ingredients well-suited for oily, clog-prone skin.

Analysis of the ingredients:

  • Dark Spot Reduction: The formula incorporates multiple powerful brightening agents (Acetyl Glucosamine, Niacinamide, Sym-White, ODA-White Plus, MSH White Absorb, Licorice, Ume). These ingredients work through different mechanisms and are included at concentrations expected to be highly effective in reducing hyperpigmentation.
  • Oil Control & Acne: Ingredients like Niacinamide, Zinc PCA, and AcneBee™ are excellent choices for oily and acne-prone skin, helping to control oil, reduce inflammation, and address acne concerns.
  • Niacinamide 10%: This is a high concentration that offers multiple benefits, including improving the appearance of acne marks, controlling oil, and strengthening the skin barrier.
  • Zinc PCA: This specifically targets oil control, which is beneficial for your skin type.

Considerations:

  • While the high concentration and combination of active ingredients offer strong potential for results, they also increase the risk of skin irritation, especially with 10% Niacinamide and multiple brightening agents. It is highly recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying the serum to your entire face.
  • The 10% Silicone Gel contributes to the texture and provides a smooth, potentially mattifying feel, which you found suitable for your needs.

Overall, this is a powerful formula well-aligned with your goals of reducing dark spots and managing oily, acne-prone skin. It has a high potential for effectiveness, but please be mindful of the potential for irritation and perform a patch test.