Curology Cleanser Recipe

Warm water

Pour 1 cup distilled water into a sanitized heatproof beaker or bowl. Warm gently to about 30–35°C (86–95°F) — warm but not hot — to help dilute surfactants and dissolve water-soluble ingredients.

Add 1/4 cup decyl glucoside to the warmed distilled water. Stir slowly with a sanitized spoon or spatula to minimize foam. Once partially incorporated, add 1 tablespoon cocamidopropyl betaine and stir gently until the mixture is uniform. Allow mixture to rest briefly to reduce bubbles.

Add 1 teaspoon glycerin to the surfactant mixture and stir until dissolved. Add 1/2 teaspoon propylene glycol (or 1,3-propanediol) and 1 teaspoon of 10% panthenol solution. Mix gently to fully incorporate. These ingredients increase moisture retention and provide a silky feel.

Stir in 2 tablespoons aloe vera juice. If using thicker aloe gel, pre-dilute to a liquid consistency. Add 1/2 teaspoon niacinamide 10% solution and mix thoroughly. Note: do not add powdered niacinamide directly to surfactant base; use a water/propylene glycol solution to ensure solubility.

Measure the pH of the mixture with pH strips or a pH meter. A gentle facial cleanser should be in the pH range about 5.0–6.0. If pH is below ~4.5, adjust upward by adding tiny drops of the 10% sodium hydroxide solution; if above 6.5, you can lower pH with a dilute citric acid solution (not listed above). Add sodium hydroxide 10% very sparingly — start with an estimated 1–2 drops (≈0.02–0.05 tsp) and re-check pH after mixing.

Once pH is in range, add 1/2 teaspoon preservative (follow the manufacturer's recommended use rate and temperature guidelines). Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of preservative.

If desired, add 1/4 teaspoon ethylhexylglycerin as an additional skin conditioning agent. If using fragrance or essential oil, add a very small amount (often 0.05–0.2% final concentration) after confirming preservative compatibility and tolerance — for sensitive-skin formulations it's recommended to leave fragrance out.

Give the final formula a gentle stir to remove entrained bubbles. Transfer the cleanser into a sanitized pump bottle or squeeze tube. Label with ingredients, date made, and recommended use-by (typically 3–6 months for DIY preserved water-based products; follow preservative guidance).

To use: wet face with lukewarm water, dispense a small amount (pea-sized) into hands, lather gently and massage onto face for 30–60 seconds, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Avoid contact with eyes. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.