Toner Formulation with DMAE and Extracts: Compatibility and Mixing Order
Question
I would like to inquire about a toner formulation using DMAE.
Can I mix the following ingredients?
- Witch Hazel (remaining percentage)
- Aloe Vera Extract 10:1 3%
- Allantoin 0.2%
- Calendula Extract 3%
- Phenoxyethanol 1%
- DMAE 3%
Can I also add Sodium Lactate Plus 1-5% and/or VersaMoist 0.5-3%? Is it possible to include both?
Is there a specific mixing order for these ingredients, or can they be mixed in any order?
Answer
Toner Formulation with DMAE, Witch Hazel, and Extracts
Based on the ingredients you've listed, you can create a beneficial toner formulation. The proposed ingredients and concentrations are generally compatible for a water-based toner.
Ingredients:
- Witch Hazel (Distillate - Alcohol Free, Paraben Free) - Remaining percentage to 100%
- DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid - 3%
- Aloe Vera Extract (extraction ratio 10:1 FullAssay™) - 3%
- Allantoin - 0.2%
- Calendula Extract (Water Soluble) - 3%
- Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure) - 1%
- Optional: Sodium Lactate Plus - 1-5%
- Optional: VersaMoist™ - 0.5-3%
You can include both Sodium Lactate Plus and VersaMoist™ in the formulation for enhanced hydration and skin feel.
Mixing Order:
Mixing order is important to ensure ingredients dissolve properly and maintain their efficacy, especially for temperature-sensitive components.
- Combine the main liquid base: Start with the Witch Hazel and any additional distilled water needed to reach your desired total batch size (100%).
- Add water-soluble ingredients: Add Allantoin to the water base and stir until completely dissolved. Then add Aloe Vera Extract, Calendula Extract, and Sodium Lactate Plus (if using). Mix well after adding each ingredient. Gentle warming (below 60°C) can help dissolve Allantoin if needed, but ensure it cools down before the final step.
- Add the preservative: Add Phenoxyethanol and mix thoroughly.
- Add texture/penetration enhancer: Add VersaMoist™ (if using) and mix until fully incorporated.
- Final step (temperature sensitive): Ensure the mixture temperature is below 40°C. Then add DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid. Mix gently until evenly dispersed.
Check the final pH of the toner. Most toners are formulated in a slightly acidic to neutral range (pH 4-6) which is generally compatible with the ingredients listed.
Related Products Mentioned
Allantoin
Calendula Extract (Water Soluble)
Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure)
DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid
Sodium Lactate Plus