DIY SPF 15 Lotion for Sensitive Skin based on Discontinued Product

Question

I used a brand of lotion that worked very well for me. It was an SPF 15 Lotion for sensitive skin. They have stopped producing it. I have tried many other brands but they don't work for me. I am interested in trying to mix my own.

On the bottle, I saw they used ZINC oxide as an active ingredient, and also Titanium dioxide. Other ingredients are:

Water
Isohexadecane
Glycerin
Polyacrylamide
C13 14 Isoparaffin
Laureth 7
Cyclopentasiloxane
PEG/PPG 20/20 Dimethicone
Steareth 21
Stearyl Alcohol
Sucrose Polycottonseedate
Behenyl Alcohol
Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E)
Cetearyl Alcohol
DMDM Hydantoin
Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate
Steareth 2
Disodium EDTA
Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Leaf Juice
Oleth 3 Phosphate

I would like a formula to mix myself, one that is easy to make at home. Thank you very much.

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Simple DIY SPF 15 Lotion for Sensitive Skin

Based on the ingredients you provided from your favorite discontinued lotion, here is a simplified formula you can try to make at home. This formula focuses on the key active ingredients (Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide) and uses easy-to-work-with ingredients to create a basic lotion suitable for sensitive skin.

Important Note: Achieving a precise SPF level requires laboratory testing. This formula is a starting point and aims for approximately SPF 15 based on typical usage levels of mineral sunscreens, but actual protection may vary. Always perform a patch test before applying to your face, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Ingredients:

Water Phase:
- Water: 69.3%
- Glycerin: 5% (Humectant, adds moisture)
- Disodium EDTA: 0.2% (Chelating agent, helps stability)
- Aloe Vera Extract: 3% (Soothing and moisturizing)
- Phenoxyethanol P5: 1% (Preservative)
Oil Phase:
- Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: 5% (Light emollient, helps spreadability)
- Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate): 0.5% (Antioxidant, skin conditioning)
- Zinc Oxide (Micronized): 10% (UV filter - UVA/UVB)
- WaterMix™ White (Titanium Dioxide 60% Dispersion): 4% (Provides 2.4% Titanium Dioxide, UV filter - UVB, helps with dispersion)
- SepGEL 305: 2% (Emulsifier and thickener - helps oil and water mix without heat)

Instructions:

Prepare the Water Phase: In a clean beaker or container, combine the Water, Glycerin, Disodium EDTA, Aloe Vera Extract, and Phenoxyethanol P5. Stir well until all ingredients are dissolved.
Prepare the Oil Phase: In a separate clean beaker or container, combine the Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Vitamin E, Zinc Oxide (Micronized), and WaterMix™ White. Mix thoroughly to ensure the Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are well dispersed in the oils. You can use a small whisk or spatula.
Combine Phases: Add the SepGEL 305 to the oil phase mixture and stir briefly.
Emulsify: Slowly pour the oil phase mixture into the water phase while continuously stirring. Continue stirring or whisking until a smooth, uniform lotion is formed. SepGEL 305 will help the mixture thicken and emulsify without needing heat.
Final Check: Ensure the lotion is smooth and consistent. Transfer to a clean bottle or jar.

Store in a cool, dark place. Shake well before each use as some settling of the mineral filters may occur over time.