Solubility and Solvent Ratios for Hi-LiconeA™ and WhiteCumin™

Asked by: Anonymous On: May 10, 2026 Product Type: Cosmetics Answered

Question

Hello, I was wondering what glycol ratio is required for dissolving Hi-LiconeA™ Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 20%)?

Ideally I want to use pentylene glycol or propanediol, but if either of those won't work then ethoxydiglycol. I am planning on using 0.3% of the ingredient.

I also had the same question about WhiteCumin™ (Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane).

Answer

To achieve a clear and stable solution for Hi-LiconeA™ Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 20%) and WhiteCumin™ (Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane) at 0.3% each, the choice of solvent and the ratio are critical.

1. Recommended Glycol Ratios

Based on technical data and solubility studies, here are the recommended ratios for dissolving 0.3% of these powder ingredients:

Ingredient (0.3% Powder) Recommended Solvent Ratio Solvent Amount Needed (in 100g formula)
Hi-LiconeA™ 8:1 to 12:1 2.4% – 3.6%
WhiteCumin™ 10:1 to 15:1 3.0% – 4.5%

Total Solvent Requirement: If you are using both in the same formula, you should aim for a total of approximately 6% – 8% solvent to ensure both remain fully dissolved and do not recrystallize over time.

2. Solvent Performance

  • Pentylene Glycol & Propanediol: These will work, but they are "weaker" solvents for these specific actives compared to Ethoxydiglycol. If using only these, you may need to use the higher end of the ratio (12:1 or 15:1) and apply mild heat (40–50°C) to ensure complete dissolution.
  • Ethoxydiglycol: This is the most effective solvent for WhiteCumin™. Research indicates that Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane (THC) has significantly higher solubility in Ethoxydiglycol (approx. 126.4 mg/mL) compared to standard glycols. Using even a small amount (e.g., 2–3%) of Ethoxydiglycol in your solvent blend will greatly improve the stability and clarity of the final product.

3. Mixing Instructions

For the best results and a clear final product, follow these steps:

  1. Premixing: Do not add the powders directly to the water phase.
  2. Dissolution: Combine the powders with your chosen glycols (Pentylene Glycol, Propanediol, or Ethoxydiglycol).
  3. Heat: Gently heat the mixture to 45–55°C while stirring until the liquid is completely clear and no powder particles remain.
  4. Integration: Once clear, slowly add this premix into the main formula.
  5. pH Control: Ensure the final formula pH is between 3.5–6.5 to maintain the stability of the Licochalcone A.

4. Important Clarification on Dosage

  • 0.3% Powder: If you are using 0.3% of the product as supplied, the ratios above apply.
  • 0.3% Active Licochalcone A: If your goal is to have 0.3% pure Licochalcone A in the formula, you would need to use 1.5% of the Hi-LiconeA™ powder (since it is a 20% extract). This would require a much higher solvent concentration (approx. 12–18% glycol) to keep it in solution.

Relevant References

Sources supporting the key technical claims in this answer

Solubility and topical delivery of Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) in DEGEE/Transcutol.
MDPI

Supports the high solubility of Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane in Ethoxydiglycol (DEGEE).

Solubility and topical delivery of Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC) in DEGEE/Transcutol. (MDPI).

Licochalcone A solubility in organic solvents and ethanol.
Cayman Chemical

Supports the solubility profile of Licochalcone A in organic solvents and glycols.

Licochalcone A solubility in organic solvents and ethanol. (Cayman Chemical).

Separate From The Technical Answer

Optional Product Solution

Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 1%, Water-Soluble)
Easier Formulation with Water-Soluble Licorice Extract
Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A 1%, Water-Soluble)

If you find dissolving the powder extract challenging or want to reduce the glycol content in your formula, this water-soluble version of Licochalcone A is an excellent alternative. It can be added directly to the water phase and ensures a clear result without heating.