Ethoxydiglycol and Hydrogel in Your Serum Formulation

Here is some information regarding the use of Ethoxydiglycol and Hydrogel (Biosaccharide Gum-1) in your water-based facial serum formulation:

Ethoxydiglycol

• When to add: Ethoxydiglycol is a solvent and carrier that is soluble in water. It can be added to the water phase of your formulation. If you are using it to help dissolve or carry specific ingredients like your herbal extracts, you can mix Ethoxydiglycol with those ingredients first before incorporating them into the main water phase.
• pH: The specific pH of Ethoxydiglycol itself is not provided in the product description. However, it is important to ensure the final pH of your serum is suitable for all ingredients, particularly active ingredients like Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), which has an optimal pH range of 4.0-7.0.
• Mixing with Herbal Extracts: Yes, you can mix Ethoxydiglycol directly with your liquid herbal extracts. As a solvent and carrier, it can help improve the solubility and enhance the delivery of the active compounds from the extracts into the skin.
• Usage Amount: The general recommended usage rate for Ethoxydiglycol is 1-10%. However, current regulations (like the FDA limit for leave-on skin/spray products) state that the usage rate should be not more than 2.6%. To determine the exact gram amount, you would need to decide on the percentage you want to use within the permitted range and calculate based on your total batch size.
• Higher Usage Rates in Other Brands: The product description mentions that higher usage rates (up to 10%) might be used in rinse-off products like shampoo or soap, or in hair coloring products (up to 5% or 7%). For leave-on skin products, the current regulatory limit is 2.6%. Using higher concentrations in leave-on products may be non-compliant with regulations or could potentially relate to different grades or specific product types not intended for typical facial serum use. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended usage rates and regulatory limits for cosmetic grade Ethoxydiglycol in leave-on facial products.

Hydrogel (Biosaccharide Gum-1)

• When to add: Hydrogel (Biosaccharide Gum-1) is water-soluble and should be mixed into the water phase of your formulation.
• Effect on Texture: Yes, Hydrogel (Biosaccharide Gum-1) is described as a clear liquid gel and contributes to the texture and feel of the product. While it may not create a thick gel on its own, it will help to provide a soft, smooth, and light feel and can make your serum slightly more viscous or gel-like compared to a simple water solution.