Silicone-based serum formulation separation issue and solutions

Asked by: nbinnima On: March 30, 2017 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I have a serum formulation containing the following ingredients:

  • Cyclomethicone
  • Silicone Gel
  • Coenzyme Q10 Extra
  • Wild Yam Extract (Diosgenin)
  • Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol)

Will this formula separate if I don't use Silicone Blender or SiliSolve?

Answer

Based on the staff's reply, the serum formula you provided is highly likely to separate if you don't include Silicone Blender or SiliSolve.

Here's a summary of the information from the staff:

  • Separation Risk: The formula has a high chance of separating, both between the silicones themselves (Cyclomethicone and Silicone Gel) and between the oils and silicones.
  • Reason for Separation: If you include Cyclomethicone in the formula, you must use a Silicone Blender to prevent separation.
  • Alternative Formula: If you want to avoid using Silicone Blender or SiliSolve (or SiliSolve Plus), the staff recommends adjusting the formula to use 99% Silicone Gel and keep the total percentage of other oil-based ingredients (like Coenzyme Q10 Extra, Wild Yam Extract, and Vitamin E) to no more than 1%. For higher oil percentages in this alternative formula, testing for separation is necessary.

Therefore, to prevent separation in your original formula which contains Cyclomethicone, you would need to include either Silicone Blender or SiliSolve (or SiliSolve Plus).