Using Squalane with Vitamin E and Safety of 15% Butylene Glycol in Gel

Asked by: nonvapon On: April 08, 2015 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I have a couple of questions regarding formulations:

  1. If I mix Tocopherol (VitE) at approximately 1% into Squalane (Olive) oil and apply it directly to the skin, will it provide benefits? Will it help prevent water loss like silicone or other oils, or are there additional benefits? I have used it and feel my skin is soft, not too oily, and it absorbs well.
  2. Does Squalane (Olive) contain any other beneficial compounds for the skin besides the oil itself?
  3. I accidentally added too much Butylene Glycol, around 15%, into a HA + Anti-aging gel formulation. Is this concentration dangerous?

Answer

Based on the reply from C7:

  • Regarding mixing Tocopherol (VitE) with Squalane and applying it directly:
    Squalane is primarily an oil intended for moisturizing the skin and helping to prevent water loss. While you shouldn't expect many other beneficial compounds in Squalane itself, adding Vitamin E is considered a good idea. Squalane is appreciated by many for its texture – it absorbs well, feels light, is odorless, and can help replenish the skin's natural oils, especially as skin ages. Its main benefit is moisturizing and helping to prevent water loss, similar to other oils, but with a preferred feel for many. Don't expect significant benefits beyond moisturization and skin barrier support.
  • Regarding Butylene Glycol at 15% in a gel:
    Using Butylene Glycol at around 15% is not considered dangerous. However, using humectants like Butylene Glycol at higher concentrations can sometimes cause a warming sensation on the skin when applied, which might affect the overall feel of the product.