Analysis of Sunscreen Ingredients and Their Functions
Question
Please analyze the following list of ingredients and explain their likely functions in a sunscreen formulation:
- Water
- Homosalate
- Ethylhexyl Salicylate
- Alcohol Denat.
- Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer
- Dipropylene Glycol
- Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
- BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL Methoxyphenyl Triazine
- ISOAMYL P-Methoxycinnamate
- Octocrylene
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
- METHOXY PEG/PPG-25/4 Dimethicone
- Butylene Glycol
- Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
- Dimethicone
- Caprylyl Glycol
- Fragrance
- Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
- Sodium Acrylate/Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer
- Ethylhexylglycerin
- Isohexadecane
- Sodium Hydroxide
- Hexanediol
- Disodium EDTA
- Sorbitan Sesquioleate
Answer
Analysis of Sunscreen Ingredients
Here is a breakdown of the ingredients you provided and their likely functions in the sunscreen formulation:
UV Filters: These are the active ingredients that protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
- Homosalate: An organic UV filter that primarily absorbs UVB rays.
- Ethylhexyl Salicylate: Also known as Octisalate, it is an organic UV filter that absorbs UVB rays and helps to solubilize other UV filters.
- Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane: Also known as Avobenzone, it is an organic UV filter that absorbs UVA rays. It is often combined with other filters for stability.
- Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine: Also known as Tinosorb S, it is a broad-spectrum organic UV filter that is highly stable and effective against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate: Also known as Amiloxate, it is an organic UV filter that primarily absorbs UVB rays.
- Octocrylene: An organic UV filter that absorbs UVB and short UVA rays. It also helps to stabilize Avobenzone.
Solvents & Carriers: These ingredients help to dissolve or disperse other ingredients and form the base of the product.
- Water: The primary solvent.
- Alcohol Denat.: A solvent that can help with texture and quick drying, but can also be drying to the skin for some individuals.
- Dipropylene Glycol: A solvent and humectant that helps the skin retain moisture.
- Butylene Glycol: A solvent and humectant that helps the skin retain moisture.
- Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: An emollient and solvent derived from coconut oil and glycerin, providing a light, non-greasy feel.
- Isohexadecane: A light-feeling emollient and solvent.
- Hexanediol: A solvent, humectant, and can act as a preservative booster.
Texture Enhancers & Film Formers: These ingredients contribute to the feel and spreadability of the product and can form a film on the skin.
- Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer: A polymer that can provide a mattifying effect and improve texture.
- Dimethicone: A silicone-based ingredient that provides a smooth feel and can form a protective barrier on the skin.
- Methoxy PEG/PPG-25/4 Dimethicone: A silicone-based emulsifier.
Thickeners & Emulsifiers: These help to create the product's consistency and keep the oil and water phases mixed.
- Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer: A polymer used as a thickener and gelling agent.
- Sodium Acrylate/Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer: A polymer used as a thickener and emulsifier.
- Sorbitan Sesquioleate: An emulsifier that helps to blend ingredients.
Soothing & Conditioning Agents:
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract: Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Ethylhexylglycerin: Can act as a skin conditioner and is often used as a preservative booster.
Other Ingredients:
- Caprylyl Glycol: A humectant, emollient, and often used as a preservative booster.
- Fragrance: Added to give the product a scent.
- Sodium Hydroxide: Used to adjust the pH of the formulation.
- Disodium EDTA: A chelating agent that helps improve the stability of the product.
This list represents a typical broad-spectrum sunscreen formulation with a variety of UV filters to provide comprehensive protection, along with ingredients for texture, stability, and skin feel.