Silicone-Free Serum Formulation for Oily Skin

Asked by: pantawan_kantiyatep On: November 02, 2015 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Seeking guidance on creating a silicone-free serum formulation suitable for oily skin. Specifically, I want a serum texture that is:

  • Slightly viscous or not viscous
  • Easily absorbed
  • Non-sticky

Given that I want to avoid silicone (unlike bases such as Silky Serum Base), what ingredients or bases should be used to achieve this texture and suitability for oily skin?

Answer

Subject: Summary of Questions and Answers regarding Serum Formulation and Silicone

Here is a summary of your questions and the answers provided by the staff:

Regarding the initial serum formula:

  • Q1: Will the formula result in a thick serum like a cream?
    • A1: The texture will be quite thick, not liquid, but the staff cannot confirm if it matches your definition of cream thickness.
  • Q2: Does the pH need to be adjusted? If so, only in the water part?
    • A2: No, pH adjustment is not needed.
  • Q3: Is the mixing order 3+2+1 correct?
    • A3: Yes, the mixing order is correct. Important tip: When adding phase 1 to phase 3, add gradually in small amounts and mix thoroughly before adding more. Do not add all at once.
  • Q4: When will Silky Serum Base Plus (Face/Eye, Oil) be back in stock?
    • A4: It is expected to be back in stock around this Friday. Apologies for the inconvenience.

Regarding SiliSilk, Cyclomethicone, and silicones in general:

  • Q1: How much Cyclomethicone / Cyclopentasiloxane (Low-Odor) should be used when mixing SiliSilk and SiliSolve?
    • A1: In this type of formula, the total amount of silicone ingredients (SiliSilk + Cyclomethicone + SiliSolve) should not exceed 25%-30%. The remaining 70%-75% is water.
  • Q2: If using a non-sunscreen night cream with silicone daily, will it cause acne, clogged pores, or long-term effects? Or should a silicone-free cream be used?
    • A2: It depends on individual skin. Some people may experience acne with silicone, but the majority can use it without issues. Many smooth-textured creams from major brands contain silicones.
  • Q3: Are Silky Serum Base Plus (Face/Eye, Oil) and Silky Serum Base (Face/Eye) silicones? If used daily as a night serum, will they cause acne, clogged pores, or long-term effects?
    • A3: Yes, they are silicone-based. The potential for acne or clogged pores is individual, as mentioned in A2. If unsure, perform a patch test. If you have used major brand creams containing silicones without issues, you are likely fine with these bases.

Regarding a silicone-free serum formula for oily skin:

  • Q1: What should be used to create a slightly viscous (or not viscous), easily absorbed, non-sticky serum texture without silicone, suitable for oily skin?
    • A1: To avoid silicone, you should avoid Silky Serum Base as it is silicone-based. Consider using Pro Polymer or Pro Polymer Silk to create a gel texture. Using 0.3-0.5% will give a liquid, serum-like texture. Ingredients suitable for oily skin can be selected from the "Oil Control" category.