Formulation Guide: SPF 50 Silicone-Based Foundation Sunscreen with High Coverage

Asked by: Anonymous On: January 05, 2026 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please provide a formulation guide for a foundation sunscreen with the following specifications:

  • SPF 50 protection
  • High coverage to conceal wrinkles and replace the use of pressed powder
  • Texture: Silicone-based
  • Sunscreen type: Hybrid (Mixed Physical and Chemical)

Answer

For a silicone-based foundation sunscreen with SPF 50 and high coverage to replace pressed powder, a Water-in-Silicone (W/Si) or Water-in-Oil (W/O) emulsion is recommended. This structure provides a smooth, velvety feel, excellent water resistance, and long-lasting wear.

Recommended Formula Guide

Phase A: Oil & Silicone Phase

  • Water-in-Oil EZ™: 2.0% (Emulsifier to bind water and silicone)
  • Cyclomethicone (or Dimethicone 1-5cs): 15.0% (Silicone base for a light, non-greasy feel)
  • Silicone Film (Medium-Wear, Soft): 3.0% - 5.0% (Helps the foundation stay on the skin, waterproof, and prevents rubbing off)
  • SPF Protect Ultra™ III: 10.0% - 15.0% (Hybrid UV filter for broad-spectrum protection)
  • Titanium Dioxide FoundationPro™: 5.0% - 10.0% (Provides high coverage and physical sun protection)
  • Zinc Oxide (40nm, Triethoxycaprylylsilane Coated): 5.0% - 8.0% (Physical sunscreen for UVA protection, easy to disperse in silicone)
  • ReadyMix™ Iron Oxides (Yellow, Red, Black): Adjust as needed (Pre-dispersed pigments for easy color matching)

Phase B: Water Phase

  • Water: to 100%
  • Magnesium Sulfate: 1.0% (Crucial for stabilizing W/Si emulsions)
  • Glycerin or Butylene Glycol: 3.0% - 5.0% (Humectant to keep skin hydrated)
  • Broad-spectrum Preservative: 1.0%

Key Ingredients & Benefits

  1. Water-in-Oil EZ™: An emulsifier specifically designed for silicone-based foundations and sunscreens. It creates a stable texture that feels soft and smooth.
  2. Titanium Dioxide FoundationPro™: Offers superior coverage to hide wrinkles and imperfections, acting as a "liquid powder."
  3. Silicone Film (Medium-Wear, Soft): Ensures the foundation doesn't crease into fine lines and remains waterproof throughout the day.
  4. ReadyMix™ Iron Oxides: These are pre-dispersed in silicone/oil, allowing you to achieve a professional-looking skin tone without the need for high-shear grinding.

Mixing Instructions

  1. Prepare Phase A: Combine all ingredients in the Oil/Silicone phase. Use a stirrer or homogenizer to ensure the physical sunscreens and pigments are evenly dispersed.
  2. Prepare Phase B: Dissolve Magnesium Sulfate and humectants in water.
  3. Emulsification: Slowly add Phase B into Phase A in a small stream while stirring or blending continuously. Do not add all at once, as it may cause the emulsion to fail.
  4. Finalize: Once the texture is uniform, add the preservative and mix well.
  • Note: To achieve SPF 50, the total concentration of UV filters (Physical + Chemical) should be carefully balanced. You may use an SPF testing service to verify the final result.*