Understanding Your Skin Reaction to Your Formulation

You're experiencing itching and redness after applying a formulation containing AcnePLEX 5%, Safe-B3™ 5%, NAG 4%, and Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) 3%. You've used Safe-B3™ and NAG regularly without issues, and EGF is a new addition along with AcnePLEX.

Based on the properties of the ingredients you are using, the most likely cause of the itching and redness is irritation from the AcnePLEX, specifically due to its Salicylic Acid content.

Here's why:

• AcnePLEX™: This ingredient contains Salicylic Acid, which is a known effective acne treatment but can also cause skin irritation, especially at higher concentrations or on sensitive or compromised skin. While AcnePLEX is designed to help restore the skin barrier and reduce irritation, using it at 5% is at the higher end of the recommended range (1-5.5%) and could still cause a reaction in some individuals.
• Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide): The Safe-B3™ type you are using is specifically noted for its high purity, allowing usage up to 10% without causing flushing or redness, which is a common issue with standard Niacinamide at concentrations above 5%. Since you are using it at 5% and haven't had issues before, it's unlikely to be the primary cause.
• NAG: N-Acetyl Glucosamine is generally well-tolerated and often used in combination with Niacinamide.
• Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF): EGF is known for its skin-healing and barrier-strengthening properties and is not typically associated with causing irritation.

The symptoms you describe (itching, tingling, redness that is easily provoked by scratching) are more characteristic of irritation from an active ingredient like Salicylic Acid rather than a true allergic reaction. An allergic reaction might present with more severe symptoms like hives, swelling, or persistent, intense itching.

Recommendation:

If the irritation is mild, you might try reducing the frequency of application (e.g., every other day) to allow your skin to adjust. If the irritation is significant or persists, it would be advisable to discontinue use of the product containing AcnePLEX. You could also try reducing the concentration of AcnePLEX in your formulation if you are making it yourself.