Adding Sunscreen to Water-Drop Cream

Asked by: freshy-beauty On: May 08, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

How can I add sunscreen to a Water Drop cream formulation, such as one made with Silky Serum Base or SiliSolve, while maintaining its characteristic water-drop texture upon application? What type of emulsifier and general method should be used to incorporate oil-soluble chemical sunscreens or dispersed physical sunscreens?

Answer

Adding Sunscreen to Water-Drop Cream

To add sunscreen to a water-drop cream while maintaining its texture, you need to use an appropriate emulsifier that can create a water-in-silicone or water-in-oil emulsion. The water-drop effect is typically achieved with these types of emulsions where the external phase is silicone or oil, and the internal phase is water.

Based on the forum thread and staff reply, products like Silky Serum Base and SiliSolve can help create a water-drop texture by forming a serum-like consistency when mixed with water.

For incorporating sunscreens, especially oil-soluble chemical sunscreens or dispersed physical sunscreens, an emulsifier designed for water-in-oil or water-in-silicone systems is often necessary. Warp Cream Maker is a suitable emulsifier for creating water-in-silicone emulsions, which are commonly used in sunscreens to provide a light, non-greasy feel and can also contribute to a water-resistant texture.

General Approach for Adding Sunscreen:

  1. Select your sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen ingredient or blend (e.g., BEMT, SPF Protect Ultra III). Note whether it is oil-soluble or requires dispersion in oil or silicone.
  2. Prepare the Oil/Silicone Phase: Dissolve or disperse the sunscreen in the oil and/or silicone components of your formula (such as Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone, or a solvent like LipidSoft SPF if needed for solubility).
  3. Prepare the Water Phase: Combine water and any water-soluble ingredients.
  4. Emulsify: Add the water phase gradually to the oil/silicone phase containing the emulsifier (Warp Cream Maker or potentially SiliSolve depending on the oil content and desired texture), while continuously mixing with a high-speed blender until a homogeneous emulsion is formed.

The specific percentages and mixing method will depend on the chosen emulsifier, sunscreen, and desired SPF level and texture. Formulating sunscreens requires careful consideration to ensure stability and efficacy.

Finding Warp Cream Maker

Warp Cream Maker can be found on the website, typically listed under the emulsifier category.