Sourced from natural oleic acid, this ingredient was developed as a gentler alternative to azelaic acid, offering comparable efficacy with a lower irritation profile. Studies indicate that 9-Octadecenedioic Acid interacts with enzymatic receptor sites involved in melanin production, helping to normalize pigmentation and promote a more even skin tone.

Beyond pigment regulation, it supports sebum control and blemish reduction, making it well-suited for formulations targeting hyperpigmentation, uneven tone, and acne-prone skin.

INCI: 9-Octadecenedioic Acid
Recommended Use Level: 1–2%
Solubility: Oil-soluble
Processing: Add in the cool-down phase or below 60 °C
Formulation Type: Emulsions, anhydrous systems, serums, creams, lotions

In cosmetics, titanium dioxide is commonly used to create a smooth, uniform look, reduce transparency, and improve the visual appeal of formulations. It is an essential ingredient in color cosmetics, skincare, and sun care products.

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Uses in Cosmetic Formulation

Provides whiteness and opacity to formulations

Improves coverage and visual uniformity

Enhances brightness and color payoff in makeup

Helps reduce transparency in creams and lotions

Commonly used in decorative cosmetics and sun care products

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Common Applications

Foundations, concealers, and powders

BB creams and tinted moisturizers

Sunscreens and sun care products*

Creams, lotions, and emulsions

Soaps and personal care products

*When used for UV protection, only approved grades and regulated usage levels should be followed according to local cosmetic regulations.

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Solubility

Insoluble in water and oils

Dispersible in water or oil phases using proper mixing and dispersing techniques

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Usage Rate

Color cosmetics: 2–25% (depending on coverage and opacity required)

Skincare and creams: 0.1–5%

Soaps: 0.5–3%

Sunscreen formulations: usage must comply with local regulatory limits

-Note

Available as micronized or non-micronized grades

Must be properly dispersed to avoid clumping

Can increase viscosity and thickness of formulations

Compatible with most cosmetic ingredients

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Storage

Store in a cool, dry place

Keep container tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption

Protect from contamination and excessive humidity

It’s a water-soluble powder derived from glucose and is commonly used in skincare formulations under the INCI name Gluconolactone (also known as Glucono-delta-lactone).

Benefits.

Gentle Exfoliation
Helps lift away dead skin cells on the surface, revealing smoother, brighter skin without harsh tingling or redness.

Deep Hydration.
Acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin to keep it soft, plump, and comfortable.

Barrier Support.
Strengthens the skin’s natural barrier and improves overall texture with continued use.

Antioxidant & Anti-Aging Care.
Helps protect against environmental stress while reducing the appearance of fine lines and early signs of aging.

Chelating & pH Support.
Improves formula stability by binding metal ions and assisting with pH balance.

–Usage Rates

Usage depends on the product type and intended performance:

0.1–5% – Daily leave-on products like serums and creams.

5–15% – Exfoliating treatments and masks (occasionally up to 20%).

Up to 0.075% – Eye-area and very delicate formulations.

Up to 15% – Maximum commonly reported cosmetic use.

Lower levels (1–5%) are ideal for daily hydration and gentle exfoliation, especially for sensitive skin. Higher levels (10–15%) are best suited for rinse-off or targeted exfoliating products and should be carefully balanced for comfort and pH.

Gluconolactone is widely used in:

Toners and essences

Serums and moisturizers

Gentle exfoliating masks

Post-treatment skincare

Sensitive-skin formulas

Cleansers and body care products

Ideal pH: Approximately 3.4–5.5

SAFETY Precautions: Benzoyl peroxide is a strong oxidizing agent and can be flammable in its concentrated powder form. It requires careful handling and storage by trained professionals in a lab setting.

* Compatibility: Formulators must consider the compatibility of benzoyl peroxide with other ingredients in the formulation, as it can cause oxidation and potentially reduce the effectiveness or stability of certain actives.
Typical Usage Rate in Finished Products:
As mentioned earlier, the final concentration of benzoyl peroxide in skincare products formulated using the powder typically ranges from 2.5% to 10%.
* Lower concentrations (2.5% – 5%) are often recommended for initial use or for individuals with sensitive skin. Research suggests that lower concentrations can be as effective as higher ones with less irritation.
* Higher concentrations (up to 10%) may be used for more persistent or severe acne, but they also carry a higher risk of dryness and irritation.