Formulation Questions Answered

Here are the answers to your questions about the whitening gel formulation:

1. Mixing by Hand Stirring

Most of the ingredients in your formula are water-soluble powders or liquids that can likely be incorporated into the Aloe Vera Gel base with hand stirring. However, Phenylethyl Resorcinol (Sym White) is oil-soluble. While Olive Oil Water is included, which is a water-soluble oil, the amount might not be sufficient to fully dissolve the Phenylethyl Resorcinol with simple hand stirring in a predominantly water-based gel. You might need more vigorous mixing or gentle warming (up to 50°C) to ensure it is properly dispersed and dissolved.

2. Mixing Order

The proposed mixing order of combining the water-soluble ingredients (Aloe Vera Gel, Olive Oil Water, Ume Extract, Vitamin B3, Acetyl Glucosamine, and Tranexamic Acid) first, followed by the oil-soluble Phenylethyl Resorcinol (Sym White), is a logical approach for this type of formulation. However, as mentioned above, ensure the Phenylethyl Resorcinol is fully incorporated, which might require more than just hand stirring.

3. Sym White vs. Activated Resorcinol for Brightening

Both Phenylethyl Resorcinol (Sym White) and Activated Resorcinol (4-Butyl Resorcinol) are effective skin brightening agents that work by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme responsible for melanin production.

Based on available information:

• Phenylethyl Resorcinol (Sym White) is described as having very high efficiency in inhibiting pigmentation and is considered one of the safest whitening substances. Studies suggest it is significantly more potent than substances like Kojic Acid.
• Activated Resorcinol (4-Butyl Resorcinol) is also shown to be highly effective compared to other brighteners like Vitamin C and Arbutin. However, it comes with a caution regarding potential skin irritation at higher concentrations (above 1% for leave-on products).

Considering the descriptions, Phenylethyl Resorcinol (Sym White) appears to offer potentially higher efficacy with a better safety profile regarding irritation compared to Activated Resorcinol.