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.
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.
Related Products Mentioned
Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate)
Glycerin (USP/Food Grade)
Disodium EDTA
Zinc Oxide (Micronized)
SepGEL 305
