Serum Formulation Breakdown

This serum formulation is primarily water-based and combines ingredients for hydration, gentle exfoliation, and benefits targeting acne and skin barrier health.

Here are the typical roles and recommended usage ranges for each ingredient:

• Aqua (Water): The main base of the serum, dissolving water-soluble ingredients. Typically makes up 60-80%+ of the formula.
• Niacinamide (Safe-B3): A key active ingredient (Product ID: 74) known for reducing wrinkles, improving skin tone, helping with acne (reducing inflammation and oiliness), strengthening the skin barrier, and increasing hydration. Recommended usage is typically 1-10%. The Safe-B3 type can be used up to 10% without causing flushing. While 15% was mentioned, research does not currently show significantly better results above 5-10%, as noted by staff.
• Glycerin: A common humectant (Product ID: 143) that attracts and retains moisture, keeping skin hydrated and smooth. Also acts as a solvent. Can be used from 1-100%, typically 5-15% in serums.
• Sorbitol: Another humectant (Product ID: 763, Sorbitol Solution 70%) that moisturizes the skin and contributes to texture. Typical usage in cosmetics is around 1-10%.
• Butylene Glycol: A solvent and humectant (Product ID: 320) that helps dissolve ingredients and adds hydration. More gentle than Propylene Glycol. Usage rate is typically 1-20%.
• Gluconolactone (Natural PHA): A PHA (Product ID: 536) providing gentle exfoliation to promote skin cell turnover, improving texture and radiance. Also has humectant properties. Recommended usage is 1-15%. Optimal efficacy is at pH 3.4-4.5.
• Hyaluronic Acid (Double Hyaluron Liquid): A liquid containing 5% Hyaluronic Acid (Product ID: 404) for intense hydration at different skin depths. Recommended usage rate for the liquid is 1-20% (e.g., 3-5% for normal skin, 10-20% for very dry skin).
• Xanthan Gum: A natural thickener (Product ID: 216) to create serum texture and provide stability. Recommended usage is 0.1-2%, typically 1% for serum viscosity.
• Sodium Benzoate: A preservative (part of Global Guard, Product ID: 879) effective in formulas with pH below 5.5. Recommended usage for Global Guard is 0.5-1.5%.

Mixing Procedure:

1. Combine Water, Glycerin, Sorbitol, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone, and Hyaluronic Acid Liquid. Stir until dissolved.
2. Disperse Xanthan Gum (can pre-disperse in glycerin/butylene glycol or add slowly to water with high-speed stirring) and mix until a uniform gel forms.
3. Add Global Guard and stir.
4. Measure and adjust pH to 3.5-5.5 for optimal efficacy and preservation.

Claimed Benefits:

• Helps with acne and reduces inflammation: Yes, Niacinamide is effective for this, and gentle exfoliation from Gluconolactone can also help.
• Helps skin feel refreshed: The blend of humectants provides significant hydration, contributing to a feeling of freshness.