Serum Formulation for Whitening & Exfoliation: Compatibility, Mixing, and Ingredient Alternatives

Question

I have the following serum formulation aimed at whitening, exfoliation, and hydration:

Sym-White™ (Phenylethyl Resorcinol) 0.5%
Disodium EDTA 0.1% (for Sym-White™ stability)
mineral oil 5%
Tranexamic Acid 3%
Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) 4%
N-Acetyl-D glucosamine 4%
glycolic acid (AHA) 5%
Natto Gum 5%
Pro Polymer™ (Gel Maker) 2%
Phenoxyethanol 1%
Water 71.4%

I want a milky white, liquid, non-thick serum texture. I have added mineral oil 5% for this. Are the ratios and ingredients compatible? Could you recommend the mixing procedure?

Also, if I don't use Sym-White™ (Phenylethyl Resorcinol), can I use ODA-White Plus™ instead? I believe it might be more effective for whitening. If it's possible, I'd like to try formulating both versions to compare their effectiveness. Thank you for your guidance.

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Based on the conversation, here is a summary of the feedback on your formula and the mixing instructions:

Regarding the second formula you provided (with Mineral Oil 5% and Pro Polymer 2%):

The ingredients are compatible.
The expected texture should be a milky white, liquid, not thick serum, as you desired.
Mixing instructions:
1. Combine all water-phase ingredients except glycolic acid.
2. Add Pro Polymer and blend until a gel forms. Note that due to the presence of glycolic acid later, you may need a blender or mixer to properly form the gel with Pro Polymer in this challenging environment.
3. Combine all oil-phase ingredients (Sym-White dissolved in Mineral Oil).
4. Add the oil phase to the gel phase and blend until well combined.
5. Gradually add glycolic acid to the mixture and stir until dissolved.

Regarding replacing Sym-White with ODA-White Plus:

Yes, ODA-White Plus can be used instead of Sym-White as both are whitening agents.
You can also use them together in a formula.
The staff cannot confirm which ingredient will be more effective for whitening as it depends on the individual user's skin. Trying both versions to compare is a valid approach.