For those who are interested in the results from the facial moisturizer survey, here they are! There were actually 89 participants – one was a duplicate. I gave you a bit of information on Friday about the results from question 1 about skin types. With that many people participating, I figured there would be pretty equal numbers of each type, but this wasn’t so. Combination skin was the overwhelming majority.

Question 2 was about whether or not you use moisturizer. Only 3 said no – because their skin is too oily, or haven’t been able to find one that doesn’t cause breakouts, or isn’t scented.

A) Works well with my skin type
B) Has anti-aging ingredients
C) Price
D) Good texture
E) Has UV protection
F) Smells good
G) Other
There were a lot of “other” responses. Nine of those were about having natural ingredients, five were about it absorbing quickly or being lightweight. Obviously, the most important factor is that it works well with your skin type. Anti-aging ingredients are a close second. I find it reassuring that all of those who make their own moisturizer or use a handmade moisturizer say that it’s perfect!

Price is a huge factor with facial moisturizer. (There are reasons why some moisturizers are very expensive. I’ve seen the prices for extracts and anti-aging ingredients! However, I think I can create something reasonable.) Some of the “other” responses include not liking the smell, too heavy, makes your skin oily or shiny or causes breakouts, and it hasn’t made you look 20 years younger!

You ranked the merits of facial moisturizer in the following order overall:
#1: Hydration (This is good! This is the primary purpose of a facial moisturizer!!)
#2: Makes my skin look healthy
#3: Anti-aging
#4: As many natural ingredients as possible
#5: Affordable
#6: UV protection
#7: Evens out skin tone
#8: Control oilyness
#9: Reduce breakouts
#10: Smells good

Your price expectations for a mostly natural moisturizer that would help your skin look healthy were in the following ranges:
53 said – $10-$20 for about 2 oz.
32 said – $20-$40 for about 2 oz.
5 said – $40-$100 for about 2 oz.

I had 65 people say they are interested in testing a Great Cakes Soapworks facial moisturizer for me, and another 20 say they would possibly be interested. Unfortunately, my R&D budget won’t allow me to use all of you, but I will look for those who are local first to save shipping costs, and also for a range of skin types and ages. I appreciate all the willingness to help me out with this, and I will be contacting you shortly about whether or not I will need you – and whether or not you are still interested after you hear what I am needing!

I also appreciate the extra comments that were made at the end. One person commented, “I’ve heard controversial things about UV protection and SPF and how it might reduce our natural ability to fight off harmful effects of the sun. So… I like UV protection, but I’m not sure it is necessary.” In all honesty, even if I created a product that has UV protection, there’s no way for me to test the SPF in a handmade product. I do know that certain oils can provide some UV protection, such as red raspberry seed oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, shea butter, and others. Legally, I cannot make any reference on the label using terms that even elude to sunscreen, sun protection, or SPF. The only thing I can do is attach information that cites a reputable study that has been done on the ingredients showing that it has a certain SPF.

My goal, therefore, is to provide a facial moisturizer that has as many natural ingredients as possible and will keep your skin looking healthy. I have some ingredients that will improve your skin’s elasticity and help even out skin tone. They might even reduce fine lines. Unfortunately, I cannot make you look 20 years younger. Healthy skin is the goal – whether you are 25 or 75. I will also work toward the least amount of scent possible, but there may be some natural distillates, extracts, and essential oils that will impart some scent.

For those who struggle with oily skin and breakouts, I would suggest trying the Clarifying Facial Soap. I’ve received very good feedback about it, and I’m hoping that the facial moisturizer will work well with it.

Someone else made this comment: “I have never had much of a problem with acne and I believe good skin care starts very early and if consistent, anti-aging ingredients are not necessary. If you take care of your skin, age shows at a slower rate. My 2 cents.” Of course, some people are just born with good skin, but she’s also right. We need to take care of our skin!! I’d better get busy formulating….