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Formulation Guides

Gel moisturiser

Format type

Structured gel (water-based)

Target pH

5.0–6.0

What this formulation is

A balanced gel system designed to deliver hydration with a light, weightless finish.

Gel moisturiser

What this formulation delivers

  • Lightweight hydration with structured delivery
  • Fresh, non-greasy finish
  • Improved water retention
  • Suitable for oil-sensitive skin
  • Stable gel texture

Before you begin

This formulation is designed as a starting point.

Small adjustments to ingredient levels will influence texture, absorption, and overall skin feel. Work within recommended usage ranges and adjust gradually.  

Check ingredient compatibility, pH, and preservation once the full system is assembled.

Formulation approach

  • Start with a water base and build hydration using humectants such as glycerin and propanediol
  • Introduce a gelling system to create structure and control viscosity
  • Add supportive ingredients such as panthenol or beta-glucan to improve skin feel
  • Maintain a low or zero oil phase to keep the texture light and fast-absorbing
  • Ensure compatibility between actives and gelling system
  • Finalise preservation and adjust pH to maintain stability

Example formulation

Water (qs to 100%) 
Glycerin - 3–5% 
Propanediol 1,3 - 2–4% 
Niacinamide - 2–4% 
Panthenol - 1–2% 
Beta-Glucan - 0.2–0.5% 

Carbomer 940 - 0.25–0.3% 
Neutraliser (e.g. NaOH solution) - q.s. 

Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (Preservative) - 0.8–1.0%

Notes

Carbomer creates a clearer, more structured gel but requires neutralisation to thicken properly.

For simpler systems, xanthan gum or sclerotium gum can be used instead. These will produce a softer, less defined gel texture.

Adjust viscosity based on desired skin feel and application.

These formulations are provided as examples to support your own development. They are starting points, not finished systems.

Ingredients

Ingredients to build this formulation

Explore the ingredients referenced in this formulation guide.

Shop all ingredients
Glycerin (USP) Sale price 100g From $6.95
Propanediol (1.3)
Propanediol (1.3) Sale price 100 g From $12.95
Carbomer 940 Powder Sale price 50 g From $12.95
Xanthan Gum Powder
Xanthan Gum Powder Sale price 100 g From $12.95
Sclerotium Gum Powder Sale price 50 g From $34.95
D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Sale price 100 g From $21.95
Panthenol 10% Solution
Panthenol 10% Solution Sale price 100 g From $10.95
Beta-Glucan Powder
Beta-Glucan Powder Sale price 15 g From $17.95
Phenoxyethanol & Caprylyl Glycol Preservative Sale price 50 g From $14.95