Using Vitamin B6 in Formulations: pH, Stability, and Adjustment

Question

How to Use Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) and Adjust pH in Cosmetic Formulations?

I am formulating a cosmetic product and want to incorporate Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride). I understand it's used to help balance skin oiliness and tighten pores, especially for oily skin.

Could you please provide details on:

The recommended usage rate for Vitamin B6?
The proper mixing method, including temperature considerations (avoiding heat above 40°C) and protection from light?
Its solubility?
Its stability, specifically the optimal pH range (2-6), and how its own low pH (2-3) affects the formula?
How to adjust the pH of the formulation to be within the stable range (2-6)? What types of ingredients can be used to lower pH (make more acidic), such as Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, or Glycolic Acid, and what can be used to raise pH (make more alkaline), such as Triethanolamine?
Is it necessary to use a Digital pH Meter for accurate measurement and adjustment, particularly in the water phase?

I need comprehensive information on these aspects to ensure the effectiveness and stability of the final product.

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

How to Use Vitamin B6 and Adjust pH

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) is used in cosmetic formulations primarily to help balance skin oiliness and tighten pores, especially on oily skin.

Usage Rate: 0.5-3.0%
Mixing Method: Add to the water phase. Avoid heat above 40°C and protect from light during the mixing process.
Solubility: Dissolves in water.
Stability: Vitamin B6 is stable in formulations with a pH range of 2-6. It will deteriorate at higher pH levels. Note that Vitamin B6 itself has a low pH (2-3), which will lower the pH of your formula.

To adjust the pH of your formulation to be within the stable range for Vitamin B6 (2-6), you can use acidic or basic ingredients:

To lower pH (make more acidic): You can use acids such as Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, or Glycolic Acid.
To raise pH (make more alkaline): You can use bases such as Triethanolamine.

It is recommended to use a Digital pH Meter to accurately measure and adjust the pH of your formulation, particularly in the water phase.