Based on the provided reference of a YouTube video titled "How to make vitamin A serum," creating a Vitamin A serum at home involves specific ingredients and processes. Here's a breakdown of how you might approach this. Note that this is based solely on the provided information and you should always consult with a dermatologist or qualified skincare professional before creating and using homemade skincare products.
Key Ingredients (based on the reference)
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Solagum Terra: This is likely being used as a thickener or stabilizer in the serum formulation.
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Montanov 68 (or material alcohol Sottero glucoside blend): This is identified as a non-ionic emulsifier. Emulsifiers are crucial for blending oil and water-based ingredients together, preventing separation. The video mentions wanting "a reasonably low viscosity" from the serum.
Process (Inferred from the video snippets)
While the provided snippets don't give a complete recipe, we can infer certain steps:
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Emulsification: The emulsifier (Montanov 68) is used to combine oil and water-based ingredients. This is essential for a stable serum.
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Thickening/Stabilizing: Solagum Terra is likely added to give the serum the desired consistency and to help prevent separation of ingredients over time.
Important Considerations:
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Vitamin A Source: The provided information does not specify the exact form of Vitamin A (e.g., retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinaldehyde) to use. This is a critical omission, as different forms have varying strengths and potential for irritation. Choosing the correct form and concentration is paramount.
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Concentration and Safety: Vitamin A derivatives can be potent and cause skin irritation, redness, and peeling if used incorrectly. Always start with a very low concentration and gradually increase as tolerated. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying to the entire face.
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pH: The pH of the serum is crucial for the stability and effectiveness of Vitamin A. You may need to adjust the pH using appropriate acids or bases.
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Preservatives: Homemade skincare products are susceptible to bacterial contamination. Adding a broad-spectrum preservative is essential to prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms.
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Water Phase: You'll need a water-based component to dissolve water-soluble ingredients. This could be distilled water, floral water, or a hydrosol.
Example of a Simplified Hypothetical Formulation (based on the limited info):
Disclaimer: This is a simplified example for illustrative purposes only. Use at your own risk after thorough research and consultation with a professional.
| Ingredient | Percentage | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Distilled Water | 70% | Base |
| Retinyl Palmitate | 0.1% | Vitamin A source (start VERY low) |
| Montanov 68 | 3% | Emulsifier |
| Solagum Terra | 0.5% | Thickener, stabilizer |
| Preservative | As directed | Prevents microbial growth |
| Optional Additives | As desired | E.g., antioxidants, soothing ingredients |
Procedure (Hypothetical):
- Combine water-phase ingredients.
- In a separate container, combine the oil-phase ingredients (retinyl palmitate and Montanov 68).
- Heat both phases separately to around 70°C (158°F).
- Slowly add the oil phase to the water phase while mixing vigorously.
- Continue mixing until the emulsion cools.
- Add Solagum Terra and mix until fully dissolved.
- Adjust pH if necessary.
- Add preservative.
- Package in a clean, airtight container.
