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Gel system

Format type

Structured water gel

Target pH

5.0–6.5 (depending on system)

Suitable for

All skin types. Used as a base for serums, gels, and actives.

What this formulation is

A structured water-based format designed to control viscosity, clarity, and flow.

 

Gel system

What this formulation delivers

  • Controlled viscosity in water-based systems
  • Stable base for actives
  • Adjustable texture
  • Flexible formulation starting point

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

  • Select an appropriate gelling agent based on the desired clarity and viscosity.
  • Hydrate or disperse the gelling agent correctly within the water phase.
  • Adjust viscosity gradually to achieve the intended structure.
  • Incorporate functional ingredients without disrupting the gel network.
  • Finalise preservation and pH to maintain long-term stability

Example formulation

Water (qs to 100%) 
Glycerin - 3–4% 
Carbomer 940 - 0.25–0.3% 
Neutraliser - q.s. 
Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol - 0.8–1.0% 

Notes

Different gelling systems produce different textures. Carbomer creates a clearer, more structured gel, while natural gums create softer textures.

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
Best Seller JNA Ingredient Co. Glycerin cosmetic humectant presented in clean, editorial packaging for advanced skincare and clean‑beauty formulations
Glycerin USP – Cosmetic Grade Vegetable Sale price 100 g From $7.70 View product
Propanediol 1,3 cosmetic ingredient for formulation available in 100g
Propanediol (1.3) Sale price 100 g From $9.95 View product
Carbomer 940 Powder Sale price 100 g From $21.95 View product
Xanthan Gum natural thickener and stabiliser for skincare and personal care formulations
Xanthan Gum Powder Sale price 50 g From $8.95 View product
A mound of sclerotium gum white powder sits in the center of a clear glass petri dish to highlight its premium natural thickener showing purity, stabilising ability, and smooth texture creation
Sclerotium Gum Sale price 25 g From $19.95 View product
JNA Ingredient Co. Niacinamide powder showcased in editorial, ingredient‑focused photography for advanced skincare formulation use
Niacinamide Powder Sale price 50 g From $11.95 View product
An amber glass bottle with a black cap and a white label reading 'JNA INGREDIENT CO.' and 'D-PANTHENOL (Pro-Vitamin B5)' used for soothing, moisturising, and strengthening sensitive‑skin formulations
D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Sale price 100 g From $19.95 View product
Panthenol 10% Solution
Panthenol 10% Solution Sale price 100 g From $16.95 View product
Best Seller High‑performance Oat Beta Glucan photographed in premium supplier‑grade aesthetic for soothing, moisture‑locking, and barrier‑supportive skincare products
Oat Beta-Glucan Powder Sale price 25 g From $19.95 View product
Phenoxyethanol & Caprylyl Glycol Preservative Sale price 50 g From $16.95 View product