Using Hydrogenated Lecithin with Pure Bakuchiol in Water

Pure Bakuchiol is an oil-soluble ingredient and does not dissolve directly in water. Hydrogenated Lecithin, a type of phospholipid, can assist in incorporating Bakuchiol into water-containing formulations.

• Solubility/Dispersion: Hydrogenated Lecithin acts as an emulsifier and dispersant. While it won't truly "dissolve" Bakuchiol in water to create a clear solution, it can help create a stable dispersion or emulsion, allowing the Bakuchiol to be distributed throughout the water phase. The product descriptions for Hydrogenated Lecithin mention its use in "encapsulating ingredients (Phospholipid Encapsulation) to increase absorption increase solubility or increase the stability of the substance," which is a method to help incorporate oil-soluble materials into water systems.
• Penetration Enhancement: Yes, Hydrogenated Lecithin is known to potentially enhance the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. The product descriptions also mention its use "to increase absorption." The description for Pure-Bakuchiol™ itself notes that other ingredients like Dimethyl isosorbide, Pentylene Glycol, and Propylene Glycol were used as penetration enhancers in experiments for maximum efficiency. While Hydrogenated Lecithin can help, you might consider combining it with other penetration enhancers for optimal results, depending on your desired formulation.
• Formulation Considerations:
  • Achieving a stable dispersion or emulsion with Hydrogenated Lecithin and Bakuchiol in water may require specific formulation techniques, potentially including encapsulation methods.
  • If your formula contains water, the pH should be adjusted below 6.5 (ideally 3.5-6.5) for Bakuchiol stability.
  • Bakuchiol can have issues with metal ions, so adding a chelating agent like Disodium EDTA or Phytic Acid is recommended for stability.

In summary, Hydrogenated Lecithin can be used to help disperse Pure Bakuchiol in water-based formulas and can also function as a penetration enhancer. However, achieving a stable and effective formulation may require specific techniques and potentially the inclusion of other co-ingredients.