Using Niacinamide Powder in Water-Based Formulas: Weight vs. Volume Measurement
Question
Regarding the use of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) powder, for example, the product detail specifies a usage rate of 1-4%. The product is packaged in 7g tubes.
Previously, I would measure the volume of the 7g powder (e.g., 5ml) and then calculate the required amount in ml based on the percentage needed (e.g., 4% = 4g, which is 57% of 7g, so 57% of 5ml = 2.85ml).
My question is: If the product is packed in 7g tubes and I need to use 4% (which is 4g based on the total formula weight), can I directly weigh out 4 grams of the powder? My formula is already water-based. Can I just add 4 grams of the powder directly into the water-based formula?
Answer
Formulating with Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
When formulating with powder ingredients like Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), it is standard practice to measure the ingredient by weight (grams) rather than converting it to volume (ml). This is because the density of powders can vary, making volume measurements less accurate for achieving a precise percentage in your formulation.
Therefore, if you need to use 4% of Niacinamide in your water-based formula and the percentage is based on the total weight of your final product, you can directly weigh out 4 grams of the Niacinamide powder and add it to your water phase. This applies to products such as Safe-B3 and Extreme-B3.
The example you provided, which converts grams to ml for a powder, is not the typical method for formulating with solid ingredients. Measuring by weight ensures greater accuracy and consistency in your cosmetic formulations.
