How to Use Starphere P5-RE12 in Your Formulations
Understanding Starphere P5-RE12
Starphere P5-RE12 is a multi-sensory ingredient that adds both visual beauty and functional performance to your cosmetic products. Think of these ruby red beads as tiny, biodegradable capsules designed to protect an active ingredient—in this case, the antioxidant Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate). They float suspended in your formula, creating an eye-catching appearance. When your customer rubs the product onto their skin, the gentle pressure causes the beads to burst, releasing the Vitamin E and a subtle red hue that quickly vanishes.
For the more technical-minded formulator, these beads are a matrix of corn starch, cellulose, and mannitol. This structure is robust enough to remain intact in water-based gels and emulsions but is engineered to easily break down under mechanical shear (rubbing). This allows for the controlled, point-of-use delivery of the encapsulated active ingredient, ensuring it is fresh and potent. The 850–1200 μm particle size is specifically chosen to be visually impactful without feeling abrasive.
Formulation Tips
- Usage Rate: Use 0.5% to 3%. Start at ~1% for a noticeable visual effect and increase for a denser look or higher active payload.
- When to Add: Always incorporate during the cool-down phase, below 40°C (104°F). Adding to hot phases can swell or break the beads prematurely.
- Suspension Is Key: Ensure sufficient viscosity for even suspension. Thicker gels, serums, or creams work best. Use rheology modifiers (e.g., carbomer, xanthan gum) to build a stable network.
- Mixing: Fold in gently at low speed. Avoid high-shear or homogenization, which can damage the spheres.
Key Performance Benefits
- Striking Visual Appeal: Pearlescent ruby red beads add instant luxury and shelf appeal.
- Antioxidant Delivery: Encapsulates Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) to help protect skin from environmental stressors.
- Engaging Sensory Experience: Satisfying “burst on rub-in” that signals active release.
- Biodegradable & Natural-Based: Starch/cellulose matrix aligns with clean and eco-conscious formulations.
- Versatile Application: Ideal for clear gels, thick serums, masks, body gels, and professional spa products.
- Controlled Release: Protects Vitamin E in-formula and delivers it fresh at the moment of application.