Making a basic hyaluronic acid serum is a great starting point in skincare product development. This kind of serum helps improve skin hydration, texture, and plumpness. It’s a popular choice in the skincare industry for all skin types. With a few simple tools and ingredients, you can create your own version at home or in a lab.

Understanding hyaluronic acid and its forms

Hyaluronic acid holds water and helps the skin stay hydrated and smooth. It comes in different molecular weights. These affect how deep it goes into the skin. A serum that includes both high and low molecular weight hyaluronic acid can work on multiple layers of the skin.

Sodium hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that dissolves in water. It’s stable and easy to use in water-based formulas. When using hyaluronic acid powder, add it slowly to avoid clumps.

Key ingredients and tools for formulation

Your water phase forms the base of the serum. You can use distilled water or aloe vera liquid. Add hydrating and soothing ingredients like pro-vitamin B5, green tea, cucumber extract, or black goji berry extract. For extra skin support, add polyglutamic acid. You can also add hydrolyzed rice protein or centella asiatica.

Use preservatives to keep the product safe and extend shelf life. Options include liquid germall plus, leucidal liquid, geogard 221, and preservative eco.

Helpful tools include:

- Digital scale with a clear display

- Glass measuring cup and mixing bowl

- Paddle mixer, stirring rod, or electric beater

- pH meter or test strips

- Storage bottles and dropper lids

Step-by-step formulation on making hyaluronic acid serum

Start by combining water and hyaluronic acid powder or complex in a clean bowl. Mix slowly and evenly to prevent clumping. Stir until fully hydrated. Add your other water-soluble ingredients like aloe vera extract, vitamin C powder (L-ascorbic acid), or pro-vitamin B5.

If you include oils like açaí oil or buriti oil, use an emulsifier like xyliance to blend them with the water base. Add your preservative last and check the pH. Aim for a final pH between 4.5 and 5.5.

Packaging and storage tips for cosmetics

Once blended, pour the serum into clean containers. Amber glass bottles, frosted bottles, or dropper bottles work well. Choose dropper tops, serum pumps, or storage lids depending on your needs.

Store the serum in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to protect the ingredients and shelf life. Look for packaging with the triman logo to support recycling.

Customizing for different skin types

Every skin type has different needs. Oily skin may do better with lighter formulas. Drier skin can benefit from more emollient ingredients and a triple hyaluronic acid facial serum.

You can also add ingredients for specific effects. Vitamin E helps with the skin barrier. Centella asiatica soothes redness. Polyglutamic acid boosts hydration. For mild exfoliation, consider pairing with an exfoliating serum.

Final tips for a safe and effective serum

Always measure ingredients with a digital scale. Use clear metric conversions. Mix thoroughly with your paddle mixer or electric beater. Avoid shortcuts that could affect quality or safety.

Patch testing is key before full use. Watch for any irritation. Keep notes on your recipe and results for next time. When done right, a simple hyaluronic acid serum can be effective and gentle for most users.

Please contact us to get started with your cosmetic project or custom formulation.