Skincare Formulation for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin with Whitening Needs
Question
I have slightly oily facial skin with some inflammatory and clogged acne. I want my skin to be whiter and reduce acne. I need a product that absorbs easily and is not sticky.
I am considering using the following ingredients in my formulation:
- Allantoin 0.2%
- Alpha-Arbutin 2%
- WhiteCumin™ 2x 3%
- Phenoxyethanol 0.5%
- Safe-B3 5%
- n-acetyl glucosamine 4%
- Luxury Cream Maker™ 3%
- Soy Extract 3%
- Disodium EDTA 0.2%
- PE-1 Aqua 2%
- Remaining: Distilled Water
Answer
Skincare for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin with Whitening Needs
For slightly oily skin with inflammatory and clogged acne that also needs whitening and a non-greasy feel, a combination of active ingredients targeting these concerns in a light, easily absorbed base like a serum or light lotion would be beneficial.
Key ingredients to consider include:
- Niacinamide (Safe-B3): Excellent for reducing oiliness, minimizing pores, strengthening the skin barrier, and reducing redness and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots left by acne). It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help with inflammatory acne. A concentration of around 5% is effective.
- Alpha Arbutin: A well-known skin brightening agent that works by inhibiting melanin production, helping to reduce dark spots and improve overall skin tone for a more radiant complexion. A concentration of 2% is commonly used for whitening.
- Liquid Azelaic™ (Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate): This water-soluble derivative of Azelaic Acid is effective in reducing oiliness, preventing clogged pores, and has antibacterial properties against acne-causing bacteria. It also helps to brighten the skin and fade dark spots. It can be used at concentrations of 5-10%.
- Pep®-Acne (Oligopeptide-10): An anti-microbial peptide that specifically targets acne-causing bacteria, making it a good addition for treating inflammatory acne. It is typically used at 5%.
- Actin AC: A comprehensive ingredient offering multiple benefits for acne-prone skin, including sebum regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, reduction of PIH, and antibacterial action. It is used at 2-4%.
Other ingredients from your list that can complement these actives include:
- Allantoin: Known for its soothing and skin-healing properties, which can help calm irritated skin and support recovery from acne.
- N-acetyl glucosamine: Works synergistically with Niacinamide for improved skin brightening and also provides hydration.
- WhiteCumin™ 2x (Tetrahydrocurcuminoids): Offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, and can contribute to skin brightening.
- Soy Extract: Can provide antioxidant and soothing benefits.
- PE-1 Aqua: A penetration enhancer that helps the active ingredients absorb better into the skin without feeling heavy.
A formulation combining ingredients like Niacinamide, Alpha Arbutin, and Liquid Azelaic in a light, water-based serum or lotion would target whitening, acne, and oiliness effectively while providing a non-greasy feel. Adding Pep®-Acne or Actin AC could further enhance the anti-acne efficacy. Ensure the final product has a suitable pH (generally between 4.0-6.0 for optimal stability and efficacy of these actives).
Related Products Mentioned
Alpha Arbutin (Switzerland)
Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide)
Allantoin
GlucoBright™ (Acetyl Glucosamine)
Soy Extract (Isoflavones / Genistein)
PE-1 Aqua