Formulation and Cleansing Advice for Silicone-Based Sunscreen

Regarding your questions about formulating sunscreen with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide in a silicone gel base and how to cleanse it:

1. Mixing Titanium Dioxide in Silicone Gel Base: Yes, you can mix/disperse certain types of nano Titanium Dioxide directly into a silicone gel base without needing additional binders, provided the Titanium Dioxide is surface-treated to be compatible with the silicone or oil phase. Products specifically designed for dispersion in silicone or oil are suitable for this purpose.

2. Zinc Oxide Stock Availability: Unfortunately, I cannot check the current stock availability of specific products like Oil Free Zinc Dioxide Nano. Please check the website for the most up-to-date information.

3. Combining Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide: Yes, combining both Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide in your formulation will provide broader spectrum UV protection, covering both UVA and UVB rays effectively. This is generally considered better than using just one type of physical filter.

4. Cleansing Silicone-Based Sunscreen: Silicone-based sunscreens are often water-resistant. To effectively remove them and prevent potential pore clogging, it is recommended to use a cleansing method that can dissolve silicones and UV filters. A common and effective approach is the "double cleanse" method:

   • First Cleanse: Use an oil-based cleanser such as a cleansing oil or cleansing balm. These products are designed to dissolve oil-soluble substances like silicones and sunscreen filters.
   • Second Cleanse: Follow with a water-based cleanser, such as a foaming cleanser, to remove the oil residue from the first step and any remaining impurities.
   • Alternatively, micellar water, which contains surfactants, can also be effective in breaking down and removing silicone-based products.