Toner Formulation for Oily/Combination Skin with Multiple Benefits
Question
I'm looking to create a toner primarily for oily to combination skin. It should function as a post-cleansing step to ensure the face is clean and ready for subsequent skincare. I'm considering the following initial formula:
- Witch Hazel 50%
- PEG-7 (Coco Wash) 5%
Additionally, I want the toner to include ingredients for mild exfoliation, reducing blackheads and small clogged pores (though this isn't the main focus). It should also help firm the skin, boost collagen, and provide hydration. I'm thinking of adding these ingredients:
- Rose Flower Water 11%
- Vitamin B6 3%
- Safe-B3 5%
- Wakame Extract 3%
- Protease Enzyme 0.5%
- Papaya extract 1%
- Centella Asiatica Extract 1%
- 1,3-Propanediol 10%
- Glycerin 5%
- Pentylene Glycol 5%
- Phenoxyethanol 0.5%
Is this formula viable? What is the correct mixing order for these ingredients?
Thank you.
Answer
Proposed Toner Formula and Mixing Instructions
Hello!
I understand you're looking to create a leave-on toner to use after washing your face, aiming for additional cleansing, skin preparation, and beneficial properties for combination to oily skin.
The formula you proposed includes many ingredients suitable for a leave-on toner that align with your goals, such as oil control, pore tightening (Witch Hazel, Vitamin B6, Safe-B3), moisturizing (1,3-Propanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Safe-B3), collagen boosting and firming (Safe-B3, Wakame Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract), and reducing inflammation/redness (Safe-B3, Vitamin B6, Centella Asiatica Extract).
However, there are considerations for the Protease Enzyme and Papaya extract ingredients:
- Protease Enzyme and Papaya Enzyme (Papain): These enzymes are effective exfoliants but have limited stability in liquid water-based formulas for long-term storage. Product information indicates they gradually lose activity when dissolved in water, reducing their exfoliating effectiveness over time. They are typically used in powder products mixed with water immediately before use (like face masks or cleansing powders) to ensure full activity. For a stable liquid toner with a longer shelf life, using these enzymes may not provide the expected exfoliation benefits consistently.
Since you mentioned mild exfoliation is not a major focus and you intend this as a leave-on toner, I recommend considering removing the Protease Enzyme and Papaya extract from the formula. This will result in a more stable toner that is easier to store. The other ingredients already help address concerns like acne and blemishes.
If you adjust the formula by removing the enzymes, the remaining ingredients total 98.5%. You can add purified water to reach 100%.
Suggested Toner Formula (Modified without Enzymes):
- Witch Hazel (Distillate - Alcohol Free, Paraben Free) 50%
- Coco Wash™ (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate) 5%
- Rose Water (Rosa Damascena) 11%
- Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) 3%
- Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide) 5%
- Wakame Extract (Brown Sea Weed) 3%
- Centella Asiatica Extract (Madecassoside 90%) 1%
- 1,3-Propanediol 10%
- Glycerin (USP/Food Grade) 5%
- Pentylene Glycol (Low-Odor) 5%
- Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure) 0.5%
- Water (Balance to 100%, approximately 1.5%)
Mixing Order (for the modified formula):
- In a clean beaker or container, add the calculated amount of Water.
- Add 1,3-Propanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Safe-B3™, and Vitamin B6 to the water. Stir or use a mixer until all ingredients are completely dissolved. (Vitamin B6 should not be exposed to heat above 40°C, and light should be avoided).
- Add Coco Wash™ and Phenoxyethanol. Stir gently to avoid excessive foaming.
- Add Witch Hazel, Rose Water, Wakame Extract, and Centella Asiatica Extract to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated. Ensure the temperature is below 40°C when adding Witch Hazel, Wakame Extract, and Centella Asiatica Extract.
- Check and adjust the pH of the formula to be within the range of 4-6.5, which is optimal for the stability and efficacy of Vitamin B6, Safe-B3™, and Centella Asiatica Extract.
- Pour into a clean, opaque container.
Additional Notes:
- Some ingredients, such as Centella Asiatica Extract, Wakame Extract, and Rose Water, are recommended to be stored in the refrigerator to maintain their quality and efficacy. Therefore, the finished toner should be stored in the refrigerator.
- This formula contains a small amount of Coco Wash™, which is a mild surfactant. It may help remove some residual impurities but is not intended as a primary cleanser like a wash-off product.
I hope this information is helpful for making your toner!
Related Products Mentioned
Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide)
Glycerin (USP/Food Grade)
Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure)
Coco Wash™ (PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate)
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride)
Wakame Extract (Brown Sea Weed)
Rose Water (Rosa Damascena)