Sym-White in Oil, Preservatives, and Irritation Reduction Alternatives

Asked by: zom.vanatsiya On: November 12, 2017 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

  1. If I mix Sym-White (Phenylethyl Resorcinol) with a natural oil like Argan Oil (pure), can it be used directly? Does it need a preservative?
  2. For other bases (where pH is adjusted according to recommendations), what ingredients can be used instead of Chamomile to reduce irritation? Can Magnolia Extract or Wild Yam Extract be used?

Answer

Formulation Advice

Sym-White and Natural Oils

Phenylethyl Resorcinol (SymWhite 377) can be dissolved in oil. When formulating, it's recommended to add it in the final step, especially in cream/lotion bases that contain oil. The stability of Phenylethyl Resorcinol is best at a pH of 4-5. The finished product should be stored away from light and air.

Regarding preservatives: If the mixture is 100% anhydrous oil, traditional water-soluble preservatives are not needed for microbial growth in the oil. However, for cosmetic products, overall preservation is generally recommended for safety and stability, especially considering potential contamination during use. If any water is present or introduced, a suitable broad-spectrum preservative is necessary.

Alternatives for Reducing Irritation

For reducing skin irritation, Pure-Magnolol™ is an effective ingredient. It works by inhibiting inflammatory processes in the skin. It is a powder soluble in glycerin and can be used in various skincare products.

Wild Yam Extract (Diosgenin 95%) also has properties that help reduce skin irritation and can help restore skin firmness and hydration. It is soluble in highly polar oil, ethanol, or surfactant and is suitable for formulas with a pH of 4.0-6.5.

Please note that Magnolia Flower Extract (the scent extract type) is primarily used for its natural fragrance in cosmetic formulas and does not have research-backed efficacy for skin benefits like reducing irritation.

Examples of preservatives suitable for cosmetic formulations include Mild Preserved™ COS, Global Guard™ 221, Preserve-BSB™, and NaturePreserve™ LB2, which offer broad-spectrum protection across different pH ranges. Always check the specific product details for usage rate and pH compatibility.