SK-Influx Ceramide Complex 20 g

SK-Influx - Ceramide Complex: Reinforcing Your Skin's Natural Barrier

Introducing SK-Influx - Ceramide Complex, a cutting-edge active ingredient meticulously developed in Germany. This opalescent, opaque liquid is a powerful blend of essential lipids, designed to replenish and strengthen the skin's natural barrier. Soluble in the aqueous phase, SK-Influx is an indispensable component for creating advanced skincare formulations that target sensitive, dry, aging, and compromised skin.

Description and Key Features

SK-Influx - Ceramide Complex is a sophisticated, pre-blended lipid concentrate featuring a synergistic combination of Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6 II, Ceramide 1, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, and Xanthan Gum. This unique composition mimics the natural lipid structure of the skin's stratum corneum, the outermost layer responsible for barrier function.

The opalescent and opaque appearance of the liquid indicates its rich, lipidic content. Its water solubility makes it incredibly easy to incorporate into a wide range of water-based and emulsified cosmetic products without requiring extensive heating or specialized equipment. By providing a balanced ratio of ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids, SK-Influx effectively restores the skin's barrier integrity, reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and enhances the skin's natural protection against environmental aggressors and irritants.

Versatile Applications and Usage Areas in Cosmetics

SK-Influx - Ceramide Complex is a cornerstone ingredient for creating high-performance skincare products, particularly those aimed at repairing and strengthening the skin barrier. Its wide range of applications makes it suitable for diverse formulations:

• Skincare for Sensitive and Compromised Skin:
  • Calming Creams and Lotions: Ideal for formulations designed to soothe redness, irritation, and discomfort associated with sensitive or reactive skin. SK-Influx helps rebuild the compromised barrier, reducing sensitivity over time.
  • Post-Procedure Care: Excellent for creams and balms used after dermatological procedures (e.g., peels, laser treatments) to accelerate skin recovery and minimize downtime by restoring the protective barrier.
  • Eczema and Psoriasis Support: While not a medical treatment, products containing SK-Influx can help alleviate dryness and discomfort associated with these conditions by replenishing the skin's lipid barrier.
• Anti-Aging and Mature Skin Formulations:
  • Restorative Night Creams and Serums: As skin ages, ceramide levels naturally decline, leading to increased dryness and barrier dysfunction. SK-Influx helps replenish these vital lipids, improving skin hydration, elasticity, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Firming Lotions and Treatments: By strengthening the barrier, SK-Influx indirectly contributes to improved skin texture and firmness, making it a valuable addition to anti-aging regimens.
• Products for Dry and Very Dry Skin:
  • Intensive Moisturizers and Balms: Essential for formulas targeting chronically dry or parched skin. SK-Influx significantly improves the skin's ability to retain moisture, providing long-lasting hydration and comfort.
  • Protective Barriers: Can be used in "barrier creams" or "cold creams" to shield very dry or exposed skin from harsh environmental conditions (wind, cold).
• Facial Cleansers and Toners:
  • Gentle Cleansing Gels and Milks: Incorporating SK-Influx into cleansers helps prevent stripping of the skin's natural lipids during washing, leaving the skin feeling soft and comfortable, rather than tight.
  • Hydrating Toners: Adds barrier-supporting benefits to toners, preparing the skin to better absorb subsequent treatments.
• Body Care:
  • Body Lotions and Creams: Extend the benefits of ceramide replenishment to the entire body, especially for dry shins, elbows, and hands.
  • Hand Creams and Foot Balms: Provides intensive repair and protection for areas prone to extreme dryness and cracking.

Recommended Inclusion Rates:

• Normal Skin: 1.5 - 5%
• Dry Skin: 3 - 5%
• Aging Skin: 3 - 5%
• Restoration of Very Dry Skin / Protective Products: 3 - 15%

Cosmetic Recipe: "Barrier Restore" Hydrating Face Cream

Craft a rich, nourishing face cream designed to replenish and strengthen the skin's natural barrier, perfect for dry, sensitive, or aging skin.

Instructions for Preparation:

1. Sanitization: Thoroughly sanitize all your equipment (beakers, stirring rods, containers) using isopropyl alcohol and allow to air dry completely.
2. Prepare Phase A: In a heat-resistant beaker, combine distilled water and glycerin. Sprinkle Xanthan Gum evenly over the surface and let it hydrate for 5-10 minutes (it will form a gel). Gently stir to ensure no clumps.
3. Prepare Phase B: In a separate heat-resistant beaker, combine Olivem 1000, Cetyl Alcohol, Shea Butter, and Jojoba Oil.
4. Heat Phases: Heat both Phase A and Phase B separately in a double boiler or microwave until both reach approximately 70-75°C (158-167°F). Ensure all solid ingredients in Phase B are melted.
5. Emulsification: Slowly pour Phase B into Phase A while continuously stirring with a stick blender or high-shear mixer. Blend for 2-3 minutes until a stable emulsion forms. Continue stirring occasionally as the mixture cools.
6. Cool-Down Phase (Phase C): Once the emulsion has cooled to below 40°C (104°F) and appears creamy, add the SK-Influx - Ceramide Complex, Panthenol, Vitamin E, and your chosen preservative.
7. Final Mix and pH Adjustment: Stir thoroughly for several minutes to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. Check the pH of your cream; it should ideally be between 5.0 and 5.5 for optimal skin compatibility and preservative efficacy. Adjust if necessary using a diluted solution of lactic acid (to lower pH) or baking soda solution (to raise pH), adding drop by drop and rechecking.
8. Packaging: Transfer the finished cream into a clean, sanitized jar or airless pump bottle.

Recommendations for Use:

• Inclusion Levels: Adjust the percentage of SK-Influx - Ceramide Complex based on the skin type you are targeting, following the recommended guidelines (e.g., 5% for dry/aging skin).
• Incorporation: Always add SK-Influx into the aqueous (water) phase of your formulation, ideally during the cool-down phase (below 40°C/104°F) for emulsions, to preserve the integrity of its delicate lipid components.
• pH Stability: Ensure your final product's pH is within the optimal range for skin and for the stability of SK-Influx (typically around pH 4-7, but always refer to the supplier's specific guidelines if available).
• Mixing: Gentle stirring is sufficient to incorporate SK-Influx. Avoid excessive agitation that could introduce air bubbles.
• Sensory Profile: SK-Influx may slightly impact the texture, making the final product feel richer. Its opalescent nature might give a slightly hazy appearance to clear gels or light emulsions.
• Storage: Store the finished product in a cool, dark place. For bulk SK-Influx concentrate, store in its original container, away from direct light and heat, in a dry environment.