Determining SPF Value and the Role of PMMA Booster in Sunscreen

PMMA Booster (Color Booster) is a booster, not a primary UV filter. It does not have an SPF value of its own. Its role in a sunscreen formula is to help disperse UV filters more effectively, improve skin feel, and reduce the white cast of physical sunscreens.

To answer your questions:

1. What will the SPF be?
   The SPF value depends entirely on the active UV filters (such as Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, or chemical filters) in your formula. PMMA Booster at 5% will help those filters perform better, but it cannot create SPF 50 by itself. If your formula does not contain other UV filters, the SPF will be near zero.

2. How to reach SPF 50?
   To achieve SPF 50, you must include a sufficient percentage of active UV filters. PMMA Booster is typically added at 3-5% in such formulas to enhance the distribution of these actives on the skin.

3. Do I need to send it for testing?
   Yes. The only way to accurately determine the SPF value of a finished cosmetic product is through laboratory testing. Calculations or "boosters" alone cannot guarantee a specific SPF rating because the final value is affected by the entire formulation (emulsifiers, oils, and how well the filters are dispersed).

Recommended Lab Service

If you have a finished formula and want to know the exact SPF, you can use the following service:

• SPF UVA, UVB measurement service (Boots Star/PA eq.): This service measures the SPF, UVA, and UVB protection levels.
  • Sample Requirement: 30 grams of a homogeneous (well-mixed) sample.
  • Result Time: Approximately 1-2 days.
  • Usage: The report can be used for Thai FDA registration to claim sunscreen effectiveness.

Related Products:

• PMMA Booster (Color Booster) (Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer): Used at 3-5% in sunscreens to boost efficiency and improve texture.
• SPF UVA, UVB measurement service (Boots Star/PA eq.): Lab service for measuring the SPF of your formula.