/r/DIYBeauty

Photograph via snooOG

r/DIYBeauty is no typical DIY beauty place! We create science-based cosmetic formulations that can be made at home without a full cosmetics lab. Not a general purpose skincare subreddit. Formulations posted here may not be used for profit.

*******************************

THIS IS NOT A TYPICAL DIY BEAUTY PLACE like you have seen on Pinterest, Facebook, or "natural" blogs.

We wholeheartedly supports SCIENTIFIC findings and legitimate research on cosmetic science.

We love preservatives, petroleum-derived ingredients, and ethoxylated emulsifiers.

It's a very special place for certain users as there is no place like this on the internet forums.

We do have information on the wiki such as preservatives, emulsifiers, and measuring. Don't forget to check out the rules.

Rules

>> Full details here! <<

1: Do It Yourself, not “Do It For You”

Discussions must be about making cosmetics from scratch yourself. Full details>>

• No asking for formulas.

• Provide evidence that you’ve done some research on your own.

• Post simple questions in the weekly thread.

2: Provide your formula

You must include each ingredient and its % when posting something you’ve made, any work-in-progress, or a request for help. Full details>>

3: Keep it scientific (pro-chemical & pro-science)

Everything is made of chemicals, and remember that all cosmetic ingredients have been tested for safety. Full details>>

4: No preservative avoidance

It’s possible to DIY self-preserving cosmetics but due to these discussions promoting the wrong belief that preservatives should be avoided, these are no longer allowed. Full details>>

5: No for-profit activity or self-promotion

We understand that many hobbyists end up starting their own business, and that’s great! However, this is not the place to promote your business/products or get advice that you will potentially make money from. Full details>>

6: No commercial products (other than duping)

No altering, mixing, or decanting commercial products. Only discuss commercial products in the context of duping. Full details>>

7: No food or supplements

For safety reasons, discussion about using food, drugs or supplements for DIY cosmetics are not allowed, including for immediate use. See exceptions here: Full details>>

8: No medical advice

We are not here to diagnose, tell you how to treat your skin condition, or provide guidance on other skin goals. Full details>>

• No discussions about making prescription treatments or drugs.

• No medical claims regarding cosmetics or cosmetic ingredients.

9.No damaging advice/topics for hair/body

• No posts & comments that have been proven to be damaging to peoples hair or skin.

Eg: using traditional saponified oils in bar or liquid form in lieu of a proper surfactant based shampoo formula, essential oils known for phototoxicity or phytophotodermatitis in leave on products, overuse/improper use of strong acids/bases

/r/DIYBeauty

45,391 Subscribers

2

Is there any alternative for coffee body scrub?

I want to change this coffee bodyscrub because its been years , I'm using the same, I want to change this formula. Is there any alternative for coffee?

My scrub formula, include

■Sugar ■ SALT ■COFFEE ■ Coconut oil

That's why I need some alternative for coffee

6 Comments
2024/04/19
14:13 UTC

1

Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Can I make hyaluronic acid serum with just hyaluronic acid powder, distilled water and germall plus?

Sorry just starting out

2 Comments
2024/04/19
06:21 UTC

1

Glittery cosmetics?

I have some cosmetics(namely micellar water, to name a few), and I was wondering how can I make it glittery. I saw a few videos on Youtube and I generally know what I need to do and have, but I was wondering if I could ask for your general recommendations. (I wanted to use Pentel's Pearl Gold Poster Color Paint, but it isn't safe for skin as far as I've checked.). I live in Poland but I believe I could buy some of the things on AliExpress or other online shops, or even find it irl. But as I was saying, I'm wondering what I can and can't use. Thanks for replies!

2 Comments
2024/04/18
19:24 UTC

1

Nicinamide Stock

What is nicinamide stock? What I can with it? Any ratio or recipe? Can you give me the link to other product that can be mix with this ?

2 Comments
2024/04/18
12:42 UTC

2

Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate VS Hydrogenated Polyisobutene

I am starting formulation and starting with making a lip oil, and I am currently stuck between these two emollients. What are the main differences between these two, and where would I be able to source them in either Hong Kong or London? Thanks so much!

1 Comment
2024/04/18
05:37 UTC

1

Best way to get rid of supplies?

I dove headfirst into diy skincare but my full time job has become more demanding. Now I’m left with tons of supplies that I won’t be able to use. Is there a diy skincare forum where I could sell some of my items?? I was going to post on Craigslist and Facebook but welcome any advice you all have as well.

4 Comments
2024/04/18
00:13 UTC

3

Thin lotion when using homogenizer

Hello,

I am struggling with a homogenizer.

I have no real experience with homogenizers, but I would like to know how to handle it better. I now have misceo 300F model and I am making a lotion with 5% Montanov 202 and 22% oils (jojoba, camellia, squalane, myristyl myristate, stearic acid and some fragrance).

The problem is that that I get a viscous lotion with the same formula when using a stick blender, and I get a very thin lotion when using a homogenizer even after a day or two. I do not add air bubbles into lotions as I make sure that the tools are fully immersed.

I make sure that both phases are hot (85 degrees Celsius), pour water into oil phase and stir a bit. The homogenise in steps: from the 1 to 4 speed and homogenize at The emulsion is still hot (75 degress) after homogenization.

I stir the emulsion gently and let it cool on its own.

Maybe someone has insights of what is happening and why my lotion is thin with a homogenizer?

9 Comments
2024/04/16
16:42 UTC

1

Need help

i made body cream with this proportion

shea 9%

oil 12.5%

glyceral stearate Peg 100 3%

Stearic acid 3%

cetyl alcohol 2%

dimethicone: 2%

water 57%

glycerin 10%

phase c

extract 2%

germall 0.5%

Vitamin e 0.5%

The texture is great. I've been experimenting this in fall/windet - no issues

Now that the temp is increasing am seeing 2 issues

  1. Oil/cream separation
  2. Mouldy (light green) at the top of the cream

What can I do to prevent this. How do I make this cream stable?

34 Comments
2024/04/15
22:40 UTC

1

What exactly is cetromacrogol emulsifying wax?

Sorry I’m not trying to DIY skincare but I’m finding it hard to find out exactly what this ingredient is /does. I have eczema and I notice it’s in almost all emollients.. is it what allows it to be used as a soap substitute? Like a emulsifier to gently cleanse skin? But then how is it safe to be left on cream with eczema skin that is so sensitive and dry - couldn’t that dry it more? Any info would be greatly appreciated thanks

13 Comments
2024/04/15
20:40 UTC

1

Will mineral makeup stay suspended in a moisturizer base?

I've been thinking about trying to make a very lightly tinted (as in sheer coverage, not pale color) moisturizer/BB cream kind of product for myself but I haven't really run into any formulas for that type of product. It seems like liquid and cream foundation formulas are entirely different than face moisturizers. I'm more familiar with formulating moisturizers so I was thinking about maybe just adding mineral makeup (probably the formula from HB&M) to moisturizer formula that I like, but I know with color cosmetics, there's often a concern about the pigments falling out of suspension.

Would this be something I'd have to worry about in a moisturizer base? Or would a moisturizer be thick enough to keep the pigments in suspension? Any other tips/tricks/resources folks have for color cosmetic formulation that might be relevant here?

4 Comments
2024/04/15
20:00 UTC

2

Which of these surfactants should I use?

I've looked up a bunch of surfactants and I'm trying to figure out which combination would work best for a shampoo with a (hopefully) pH of 4.5-5.5. I've thought of combining Decyl Glucoside and Lauryl Glucoside or Decyl Glucoside and Coco Betaine. Which would have the best lather and would work best with a low pH shampoo?

9 Comments
2024/04/14
00:13 UTC

4

Healing salve turned grey/blackish under top layer

Hi all! I have been making healing salves and I recently added zinc oxide (less than 1tsp per 10oz) and rosemary(10 drops per 10oz) to the formula I had been already using. Now the bottom layer (just underneath the top) of the salve is a grey color while the top remains light yellow whitish. I can't seem to find answers online about what this is, why, and if if still safe to use.

If you have any insight on interactions of oils or the zinc and why this occurs I'd so appreciate it.

Here are the list of ingredients I use:

organic cocoa butter, cold pressed extra virgin olive oil, beezwax, vitamin e, calendula oil, castor oil, non nano zinc oxide, rosemary EO, lavender EO, tea tree EO, frankinscence EO, geranium EO

Much aloha, G

3 Comments
2024/04/12
22:15 UTC

2

Cromollient SCE

Hi, guys. So it was my first time making my own cleansing oil, and I put more Cromollient SCE than I should have. I was supposed to put 15%, but I put 15mL 😭. I was supposed to do 13mL. I was a bit distracted. Should I start over?

16 Comments
2024/04/12
20:58 UTC

4

Container Supply Sources for Black, Dark Red, and/or Deep Purple GLASS Containers?

As the heading implies, I am looking for a[n inexpensive] source for a variety of black/dark red/deep purple glass containers. Bulk sale or even a slightly more expensive source that's willing to do custom for well under a fortune. I will admit my search capabilities are subpar, but I haven't been able to find any companies that specifically sell black glass. (The black could actually be black, just appear black, or be frosted black.) Another option could be how to make the containers appear these colors without necessarily including any plastic in them.

I know this is very niche and not necessarily easy to come by, but I've SEEN glass in these colors, so I imagine they exist. Thank you all SO MUCH for your help ahead of time!!!!

7 Comments
2024/04/10
18:18 UTC

3

DMI and ethoxydiglycol as penetration enhancers

I’ve got both, and am hoping to add one/the other/both to a multi-peptide serum (argeriline, matrixyl, etc) to help give the peptides the best possible chance to be effective (inasmuch as topical peptides can really be). BUT I’m struggling to find information on what actives it’s most effective for, and when to add it to the serum. Can it just be added at the end? (I’m assuming not). I’m thinking they’re added to the water phase, but also not sure about whether they’re meant to dissolve peptide powder, or if they’re just as effective with prepared peptide solutions. I’ve also read some say DMI is best for oil solubles, and others say it’s best for hydrophilic & water solubles. I’ve tried manual research, but not finding anything clear cut.

I know that DMI is useful for caffeine, and EGDG is good for penetrating hair shaft. Are either helpful for other actives like niacinamide, HLA, Vitamin C derivatives, retinol (too much?), GABA, etc? How about semi-botanicals like glycyrhizza glabra (licorice) or linseed?

I understand that they can increase penetration to the point where certain materials become too potent for sensitive skin, and that they can sensitize skin if used in too great a concentration/frequency. I also get that many “old hats” recommend against hobbyists messing with it at all, but I’m only making things for myself right now, I’ve already purchased the materials, and I’d like to give it a shot. This is one of the ones that seems to have more gatekeeping associated with it, but I’d really appreciate some help.

Thanks❤️

4 Comments
2024/04/09
01:26 UTC

2

Cromollient SCE EU sourcing alternatives

Any new supplier alternatives in Europe for Cromollient SCE? Mazidla doesn't seem to be online anymore and overseas shipping cost has risen to an insane price these past few years..

Would be greatly appreciated!

3 Comments
2024/04/08
21:08 UTC

3

Where can I find 'substitution tables' for oils?

I am trying a solid deodorant recipe that has apricot oil in it. But I want to substitute it for some oil that I already have (sweet almod, castor, sunflower etc). Where can I find some table or knowledge base about oil substitution? The recipe is as follows:

8g beeswax
10g unrefined shea butter
6g cocoa butter
16g apricot kernel oil
12g zinc oxide
8g cornstarch (or other starch like wheat, rice, arrowroot, or tapioca)
10 drops Vitamin E MT-50
Essential oils of choice

I adapted from this recipe: https://www.humblebeeandme.com/the-best-homemade-deodorant/

5 Comments
2024/04/08
20:08 UTC

0

Shampoo Expiration

Hi. I made a quick shampoo/conditioner using around half water, 20-25% apple cider vinegar, and then the rest with coconut oil. I left it out for one night in the open and then poured a natural preservative in it today. Is this still okay to use?

7 Comments
2024/04/07
22:56 UTC

6

Online class / resource recommendations?

Hi everyone,

I am so glad I discovered this sub! I have dabbled in DIY skincare for the past three years but I'd like to get more serious and improve my formulations. (Not to sell commercially, just for personal use.) I am particularly interested in creating transdermal formulations, but that isn't as critical as improving my foundational knowledge.

What classes or resources are you all using to learn the basics and grow your formulation skills? I'm willing to shell out a bit of money for something good, but free resources always appreciated.

Thank you for any help you are able to provide!

5 Comments
2024/04/07
17:33 UTC

2

Retinol Cream/ How does this look does everything look compatible

A 69.5 water

A 0.2 disodium edta

B 5% glycerin

B 1% sepimax zen

C .5% Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate

C 6% olivem 1000

C 2% shea butter

C 3% dimethicone 350 cps

C 5% Caprcrylic Triglyceride

D 1% Exuyl PE9010

D 3% matrixyl 3000

D 1% alpha arbutin

D 2% retinol Microcaps from making cosmetics

.8% tochperol

PH 6-6.5

1 Comment
2024/04/05
07:50 UTC

1

Formulating lotion

Hi! Anyone use “sucrose esters”? Are they pretty interchangeable with “cetyl esters”? Or not at all?

3 Comments
2024/04/05
04:07 UTC

2

What concentration of glycerin to use for magnesium spray?

I'm making my own magnesium spray, and since magnesium chloride, the form I'm using, is a salt, I want to add glycerin to prevent skin drying. What would be a good concentration to use for a strong hydrating effect, and are there any other water based moisturizers or humectants I could add, since it's a water based spray?

7 Comments
2024/04/04
21:29 UTC

2

Pigment Yellow 1. Water interaction

This is not a formula nor pigment ratio question. In practical terms I have solved my problem, however I am interested in the "Why."

The yellow pigment CI 11680 worked brilliantly in my water based body paints. Then I made some alcohol based cakes that looked beige. Really beige. Using IPA I applied it in swatches that looked - beige. In removing the swatches I found the tiniest amount of water reactivated the pigment.

So the question is - Why does this pigment require water to reactivate the colour? (I ask about "re‐activation" because the raw/dry pigment is quite striking before addition to a mix) Perhaps this is a ChemClass 101 question but how does the water activate the pigment(even after the water has evaporated) when oils and alcohols dont?

CI 11680 aka - N-Phenyl-2-(4-methyl-2-nitro-phenylhydrazono)-3-oxo-butyramide.

4 Comments
2024/04/04
13:25 UTC

2

DIY Gel or UV Nail Polish

I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask this. But I wanted to know how can I make my own UV or Gel polish. I thought maybe using some clear gel nail polish and adding acrylic paint to it would be an idea. But I'm not sure if this is correct to do? I want to make my own colors instead of buying them now.

Also I'm looking for where to buy large bottles of clear gel/uv polish to add colors too (I know where to buy powdered colors etc.). But not seen anything for it, I keep getting results for nail builder gel or the sculpting gel in pots. I've also looked for large pots of Top coat polish but not found anything either.

10 Comments
2024/04/04
13:08 UTC

3

Germall Plus, Powder

So, I inadvertently added this preservative to my cart and now have a supply of it, not knowing how to use it. I’ve read the following: “A patented combination of 99% Diazolidinyl Urea (DU) and 1% Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate (IPBC). Germall Plus is a highly effective, broad spectrum, non-paraben preservative for oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions and water soluble formulations. It has no known chemical inactivators and is compatible with virtually all cosmetic ingredients, including proteins and surfactants. Germall Plus is a white, fine, free-flowing hygroscopic powder. Germall Plus is heat sensitive and should be added to the water phase or to the emulsified portion of the formulation at a temperature of 122°F (50°C) or below, during the cool down stage. Adding Germall Plus above 122°F (50°C) could result in compromising the preservative system in your product. Germall Plus is effective over a broad pH range from 3-8. It is soluble in cationic, anionic and nonionic water-soluble formulations, as well as in the emulsified portion of water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsions. Germall Plus has been found effective at use levels between 0.05% – 0.2%.”

Based upon what I’ve read, I should be able to add it during the cool down phase of any water-based or w/o, o/w formulation. But, I’m nervous about its solubility.

Does anybody have any suggestions or insight? The liquid version of this preservative is so much less intimidating! I just be appeased by it being hygroscopic, but it’s not making me feel any more confident…

Thanking you for reading! Additional thanks for any input you may have to offer.

4 Comments
2024/04/04
02:29 UTC

1

Ty balm

Ok so I’m hoping someone else here have tried the ty balm from iamnotmiketyson on tiktok? I love it!! But has anyone been able to copy it, down to smell and texture? I want to make it so bad, it’s expensive to ship where I live so I won’t buy it again for that reason. If not I’m also trying to solve whether or not she might have used refined or unrefined shea(i have unrefined now), mine always smells too much of shea and the lovely palo santo/lavender combo does’t come through like it does in hers.

15 Comments
2024/04/03
19:22 UTC

1

Formulating with Squalane at home

I am trying to make my own oil based serum as I have been dealing with a lot of flare ups and have sensitive skin. I want to use a powder that is typically used in face masks and have it in its pure natural form but was wondering how I could go about extracting that for a serum? I want this to be Squalane derived from sugarcane rather than olive oil since I feel that would break me out. Any suggestions on how I could get started would be great. Can I make my own Squalane with purchase of sugarcane or should I purchase it readily made from a wholesaler? Thank you.

2 Comments
2024/04/02
08:15 UTC

3

Solving Problem

I'm assuming most people that diy their own products are trying to solve a problem that market does not fulfill. What is that problem that you could not find on the shelves. Thanks.

16 Comments
2024/03/27
11:22 UTC

3

Formulating

I'm new to DIY formulations and wondering how you find the right ingredients for your formula. Is there a site that breaks down each formula or a library that you use?

2 Comments
2024/03/27
11:18 UTC

2

Tool sourcing

Where does everyone get their beakers and other tools?

9 Comments
2024/03/26
21:08 UTC

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