Effect of Applying Powder Over Sunscreen on SPF and UV Protection
Asked by: last_psychedelic
On: July 21, 2015
Product Type:
Cosmetics
Question
What is the effect of applying powder (such as Talc) over an oily or organic sunscreen formulation on its SPF and overall UV protection? How does the powder itself contribute to UV protection compared to physical sunscreens like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide?
Answer
Based on the information provided:
- Applying powder (such as Talc) over oily moisturizers or sunscreens may slightly reduce the effectiveness (SPF) of the sunscreen. This is because the powder can absorb the oily components, particularly in organic sunscreens.
- However, the powder itself (Talc) provides some level of UV protection by filtering UV light.
- This UV filtering is similar to physical sunscreens (like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide) but is less effective.
- The amount of UV protection from the powder increases with the amount applied.
In summary, while there might be a slight reduction in sunscreen SPF due to oil absorption, the powder adds some compensating UV protection.