Problems mixing SAP and B3?

Formulating

Problems mixing SAP and B3?

Posted by robinindurango on February 17, 2016 at 4:42 pm

Does anyone know if there are any negative issues associated with mixing Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (SAP) and Niacinamide (B3) for topical application to skin?

I’ve read that it is not a good idea to mix Niacinamide (B3) with L-Ascorbic Acid. So I’m wondering if combining SAP with B3 has any negative implications.

Thanks!

robinindurango replied 8 years, 10 months ago 5 Members · 9 Replies
9 Replies

lewhitak

Member
February 17, 2016 at 6:15 pm

I’m pretty certain that’s due to the pH of the ascorbic acid in solution, but I could be wrong. Once the pH of a solution is low the conversion of niacinamide to nicotinic acid is accelerated. Nicotinic acid can cause facial flushing, so it’s not desired in a formula.
MarkBroussard

Professional Chemist / Formulator
February 17, 2016 at 7:30 pm

SAP is most stable at pH 6.0 as is Niacinamide. The issue in mixing Niacinamide with Ascorbic Acid is related to the pH differential.
Christopher

Member
February 17, 2016 at 10:43 pm

This patent gives formula examples where niacinamide ascorbate (niacinamide + ascorbic acid) is used. So even though there is a pH difference, the mixture is still usable.
MarkBroussard

Professional Chemist / Formulator
February 18, 2016 at 12:20 am

Personally, I’d stick with SAP and Niacinamide … why take the chance as potential liability issue.
belassi

Member
February 18, 2016 at 12:51 am

What is the B3 for? Perhaps I should try it in my new C cream (sodium ascorbyl phosphate palmitate).
MarkBroussard

Professional Chemist / Formulator
February 18, 2016 at 1:25 am

B3 has good moisturizing properties and helps even out skin tone.
Christopher

Member
February 18, 2016 at 1:36 am

@ Mark: I totally agree, just wanted to point out that there are some people that use the combination.
@ Belassi: It can also decrease TEWL and regulate sebum production
belassi

Member
February 18, 2016 at 4:44 am

Thanks. I have better alternatives, I believe.
robinindurango

Member
April 19, 2016 at 8:04 pm

I really appreciate all of your comments and suggestions. Good to know that the pH of SAP and Niacinamide are similar.

I hate to sound like a dummy, but I’m wondering if someone can share thoughts about combining SAP and Niacinamide with a cationic emulsifier like BTMS 50 or CreamMaker CAT (Behentrimonium methosulfate, cetearyl alcohol) by MakingCosmetics?

Thank you!