Analysis of Sunscreen Formulation Ingredients

Asked by: kookkaiiip On: June 20, 2018 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Please analyze the following sunscreen formulation ingredients and explain their functions:

  • Aqua
  • Zinc Oxide
  • Titanium Dioxide
  • Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice
  • Dicaprylyl Ether
  • Glycerin
  • Caprylic/capric triglyceride
  • Squalane
  • Triisostearin
  • Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
  • Sorbitan Isostearate
  • Betaine
  • Glyceryl Caprylate
  • Gluconolactone
  • Sodium Hyaluronate
  • Leontopodium Alpinum Callus Culture Extract
  • Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract
  • Malva Sylvestris Leaf Extract
  • Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract
  • Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract
  • Veronica Officinalis Leaf Extract
  • Achillea Millefolium Extract
  • Primula Veris Extract
  • Epilobium Fleischeri Extract
  • Ceramides 3
  • Ceramides 6
  • Phytosphingosine
  • Tocopherol
  • Bisabolol
  • Isostearic acid
  • Stearic acid
  • Alumina
  • Glyceryl Tribehenate
  • Sodium benzoate

Answer

Here is an analysis of the ingredients found in the provided sunscreen formulation:

This formulation contains a blend of physical UV filters, emollients, humectants, skin barrier supporting ingredients, and botanical extracts designed to protect the skin from the sun while providing moisture, soothing, and anti-aging benefits.

UV Filters:

  • Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are physical sunscreen agents that work by sitting on top of the skin and blocking ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The descriptions indicate that various forms of these ingredients are used, likely to achieve different textures, levels of transparency (to avoid a white cast), and water resistance.

Moisturizers and Emollients:

  • Aqua (Water) is the base of the formulation, providing hydration.
  • Glycerin and Betaine are humectants that draw moisture into the skin, helping to keep it hydrated.
  • Caprylic/capric triglyceride (often derived from coconut oil) and Squalane are emollients that soften and smooth the skin, reducing moisture loss without feeling greasy.
  • Dicaprylyl Ether, Triisostearin, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Glyceryl Caprylate, and Glyceryl Tribehenate are likely included as emollients, emulsifiers, and texture enhancers to create a pleasant feel and stable formulation.
  • Isostearic acid and Stearic acid are fatty acids that function as emollients and can also help stabilize the emulsion.

Skin Barrier Support:

  • Ceramides (specifically mentioned as Ceramides 3 and 6) and Phytosphingosine are crucial components of the skin's natural barrier. Including them helps to replenish and strengthen the barrier, improving skin hydration and reducing sensitivity.

Soothing and Antioxidant Ingredients:

  • Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe) Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera Extract) is known for its soothing properties, helping to reduce irritation and moisturize the skin.
  • Tocopherol (Vitamin E) is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging.
  • Bisabolol is another ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
  • The formulation also includes a variety of other plant extracts such as Leontopodium Alpinum Callus Culture Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract, Malva Sylvestris Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract, Veronica Officinalis Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Primula Veris Extract, and Epilobium Fleischeri Extract. Mentha Piperita Leaf Extract (Mint Luteolin) is noted for its potential anti-aging benefits, helping to improve skin tightness and reduce wrinkles.

Other Ingredients:

  • Sodium Hyaluronate (a form of Hyaluronic Acid) is a powerful humectant that helps the skin retain moisture, contributing to a plump and smooth appearance.
  • Gluconolactone is a Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) that can provide gentle exfoliation and hydration.
  • Alumina is often used in formulations to improve texture and feel, providing a smooth application.
  • Sodium benzoate is a common preservative used to prevent microbial growth in the product.

Overall, this sunscreen formulation combines effective physical UV protection with a range of ingredients aimed at moisturizing, soothing, strengthening the skin barrier, and providing antioxidant and potential anti-aging benefits.

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