Serum for Oily, Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

Based on your skin concerns (very oily, clogged and inflamed acne, sometimes dry, sensitive) and the previous discussion, here is a revised serum formula designed to help balance oiliness and address acne while being suitable for sensitive skin. This formula aims for a non-oily, slightly cloudy texture.

This formula incorporates the suggestions to include Zinc PCA and MSM for oil control and skin balance, and excludes Vitamin B5 which might feel too heavy for oily skin.

Proposed Formula:

• Water: ~89%
• Propanediol: 5%
• Zinc PCA: 1%
• Pure MSM: 3%
• Xanthan Gum (clear gel type): 1%
• Mild Preserved Eco: 1%

Explanation of Ingredients:

• Zinc PCA: Helps to reduce excess oil production, accelerate wound healing (like acne marks), and has anti-acne properties.
• Pure MSM: Assists in controlling oiliness and can help improve skin texture.
• Propanediol: Acts as a humectant to provide hydration without feeling greasy, and helps dissolve other ingredients.
• Xanthan Gum: A natural thickener that gives the serum its texture. Using a clear gel type helps achieve a pleasant feel, and at 1% concentration, it will provide a noticeable serum viscosity and can contribute to a cloudy appearance.
• Mild Preserved Eco: A gentle preservative system to keep the serum safe from microbial growth.

Note on BioSulphur EQ: BioSulphur EQ is effective for acne but has a noticeable sulfur smell, as mentioned previously. If you wish to include it for enhanced acne treatment, you could add it at 2-3%. However, be aware of the smell, which might make it more suitable for a nighttime serum or a spot treatment rather than an all-over daytime serum, especially if you wear makeup.

Mixing Instructions:

1. In a clean beaker or container, combine the Water and Propanediol.
2. Slowly add the Xanthan Gum to the water/Propanediol mixture while stirring vigorously. Continue stirring until the Xanthan Gum is fully hydrated and a smooth, uniform gel has formed. High-speed stirring (like with a small homogenizer or milk frother) works best to prevent clumps.
3. Add the Zinc PCA and Pure MSM powders to the gel base. Stir well until both powders are completely dissolved.
4. If you choose to add BioSulphur EQ, add it now and stir until evenly dispersed.
5. Add the Mild Preserved Eco to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Check the pH of the serum. For optimal efficacy and solubility of Zinc PCA, the pH should ideally be between 4.0 and 6.0. Adjust the pH if necessary using a suitable pH adjuster.
7. Pour the finished serum into a clean bottle or container.

This serum should help manage oiliness and acne while providing light hydration suitable for your skin type. Always patch test any new formulation before applying it to your entire face.