Simple Gel Formulation Analysis

This formulation creates a simple gel primarily using Glycerin Gel as the gelling agent and moisturizer, combined with water. Vitamin E Acetate is included for its antioxidant properties.

Why a Preservative is Needed

Since this formulation contains a high percentage of water (88%), it is highly susceptible to microbial contamination (bacteria, mold, and yeast). To prevent spoilage and ensure the safety and shelf life of the product, adding a broad-spectrum preservative is essential.

Recommended Preservatives

Here are a few suitable water-soluble preservatives you could consider adding to this formulation:

• Mild Preserved™ COS: This is a broad-spectrum, odorless, water-soluble preservative effective in a wide pH range (2-8). It should be added when the formula temperature is below 45°C. Recommended usage rate is 0.75-1.5%.
• Global Guard™ 221: A natural, water-soluble broad-spectrum preservative effective in the pH range of 2-7. Add when the temperature is below 45°C. Recommended usage rate is 0.5-1.1%.
• NaturePreserve™ Ultra: A natural, water-soluble preservative effective in the pH range of 3-6. It is a powder that dissolves in water. Recommended usage rate is 0.75-2.0%. Avoid using with Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid).
• NaturePreserve™ LB2: A natural, water-soluble preservative effective against bacteria and fungi at low pH values (2.0-6.5). Avoid heat exceeding 50°C. Recommended usage rate is 0.5-1.0%.

Choose one preservative based on your preference for natural ingredients, desired pH range, and cost.

Incorporating Ingredients

1. Combine the water and Glycerin Gel. Stir or blend until a homogeneous gel is formed. Glycerin Gel can be mixed with water at a ratio of about 1:20 to get a gel texture. For a 10% concentration, add 10g of Glycerin Gel to 90g of water (or other water-soluble ingredients).
2. Add the Vitamin E Acetate. Note that standard Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) is oil-soluble. If using the oil-soluble version, it may not fully dissolve or disperse evenly in this high-water formula. The water-soluble version of Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate) would be easier to incorporate.
3. Add the chosen preservative at its recommended usage rate. Ensure the temperature and pH are within the preservative's working range during addition.
4. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Always perform a challenge test on your final formulation to confirm the effectiveness of the preservative system.