Development of the formulation and technology of a cosmetic toner containing natural biologically active substances

The combination of snail mucin and dihydroquercetin broadens the functional properties of the cosmetic formulation but requires optimization of the excipients and the technological sequence of component incorporation due to the low solubility of dihydroquercetin. The aim of this study was to develop a formulation and optimize the technological conditions for preparing a stable aqueous toner formulation based on snail mucin and dihydroquercetin. To achieve this aim, snail mucin and dihydroquercetin were used as active ingredients in combination with a complex of excipients, including L-arginine, poloxamer 407, povidone K-17, glycerin, polypropylene glycol, sodium hyaluronate, disodium edetate, sodium metabisulfite, potassium sorbate, and aloe extract. Seven sequential model formulations (F1–F7) were developed, with variations in their qualitative and quantitative composition, component ratios, and order of incorporation. The quality of the samples was evaluated based on appearance, transparency, homogeneity, the presence of sediment, aggregation, and foaming, as well as pH and organoleptic and sensory characteristics. Physical stability was assessed using centrifugation. The results demonstrated that the physical stability of the developed system was determined not only by the qualitative and quantitative composition of the formulation but also by component interactions and the technological sequence of their incorporation. The initial model formulations were characterized by increased viscosity and tackiness, pH deviations, aggregation of individual components, and foaming. Sequential formulation adjustment, optimization of component ratios, and modification of the technological sequence enabled these deficiencies to be eliminated, resulting in a more homogeneous and stable system. The findings confirmed the feasibility of developing a multicomponent cosmetic formulation based on snail mucin and dihydroquercetin. The key factors determining the formation of a homogeneous and physically stable aqueous system were the rational selection of active ingredients and excipients, their quantitative ratios, and the technological sequence of incorporation. The developed toner demonstrated acceptable physical, physicochemical, organoleptic, and sensory properties and may serve as a basis for further investigation.