Particle sizer used to optimise skin formulation

Particle characterisation system investigates encapsulated form of retinol (vitamin A), which is shown to have beneficial effects on photo-damaged skin but is unstable in many formulation processes

Researchers at Particle Sciences in Bethlehem, USA, a company that develops and markets ingredients for personal care formulations, are using the Malvern Zetasizer Nano particle characterisation system to investigate formulations of its recently developed encapsulated form of retinol (vitamin A).

Retinol has been shown to have beneficial effects on photo-damaged skin, but is unstable in many formulation processes.

This new encapsulated form is designed for the controlled release of the active following topical application.

The Zetasizer Nano is being used to optimise manufacturing conditions for this complex skin care formulation, a multi-component system.

Examination of the effects of compositional changes on particle size and zeta potential has enabled better understanding and control of the parameters that determine suspension stability.

The Zetasizer Nano is also being used to study the impact of surface chemistry on formulation issues such as the understanding of the surface and interfacial properties, as well as long term product stability.

The Malvern Zetasizer Nano series uses patented technologies to deliver particle size measurement in the range 0.6 to 6000nm and measure the zeta potential of particles from 5nm to 10mm in diameter.

It has the sensitivity required for the measurement of highly dilute proteins and polymers as well as the ability to analyse emulsions at high concentrations, says Malvern.

All measurement routines are highly automated and an optional unit, the MPT-2 autotitrator, is available to simplify the systematic study of size and zeta potential as a function of variables such as pH, conductivity or additive concentration.

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