Coloring Physical Sunscreen with Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™

Based on your plan to color a physical sunscreen with a water-in-oil emulsion base using Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™ to achieve a skin tone similar to sponge number 2, here is some guidance:

Suitability of Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™

Yes, Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™ is a suitable colorant for your physical sunscreen. It is designed for easy dispersion in oil and silicone bases, which aligns well with your water-in-oil emulsion containing mineral oil. Its properties make it easy to mix even with simple methods like hand stirring or a basic mixer, and it helps provide a smooth, even color.

Adding the Color and Powders

Your plan to add the color along with Zinc Oxide and Kaolin after emulsification at a temperature below 60°C is generally feasible. However, to ensure the best possible dispersion and avoid a gritty or uneven texture, especially with simple mixing equipment, it is highly recommended to pre-disperse the powders (Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™, Zinc Oxide, Kaolin, and Titanium Dioxide if used) in a small amount of the oil phase from your formula before adding them to the main emulsion. This will help break up any aggregates and distribute the pigments and powders more evenly.

Starting Percentage for Color

For a skin tone similar to sponge number 2, you can start by experimenting with Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™ at a concentration of around 1-2% of the total formula. You may need to adjust this percentage slightly depending on the desired intensity. To fine-tune the exact shade to match sponge number 2, you might need to add very small amounts of other EasyMix™ Iron Oxides colors, such as Yellow, Red, or Black. It is best to start with a low percentage and gradually increase it while checking the color against your reference.

Important Note on Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide

It is crucial to use sunscreen-grade versions of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide in a sunscreen formulation. The descriptions for the specific Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide products found in the search indicate they are not suitable for sunscreen applications. Please ensure you are using forms of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide that are specifically designed and approved for use as UV filters in sunscreens to ensure proper sun protection.

By using the appropriate sunscreen-grade powders and pre-dispersing them properly, you should be able to achieve a well-colored physical sunscreen with your water-in-oil emulsion base.