Foundation Formulation Review: SPF 50+, Long-Wear, Oil Control

Asked by: thesunlaboratory On: May 21, 2023 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please review this foundation formulation draft before manufacturing? I am aiming for a product with SPF 50+, 1-2 shades brightening effect, good coverage, oil control, 24-hour wear, and waterproof/sweatproof properties. I have provided the list of ingredients and their percentages for your evaluation.

Answer

Formulation Review: SPF 50+ Long-Wear Foundation

Based on the ingredients and percentages provided, here is a review of your proposed foundation formulation against your requirements:

Evaluation of Formulation Performance:

  • SPF 50+: The combination of Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid (30%) and PMMA Booster (5%) is highly likely to achieve SPF 50+ and potentially higher. Titanium Dioxide provides broad-spectrum UV protection, and PMMA Booster is specifically designed to enhance SPF values.
  • Brightening 1-2 Shades & Coverage: The formulation includes a significant amount of Titanium Dioxide, which provides whitening and coverage. However, the proportion of Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™ (0.5%) relative to the active Titanium Dioxide content (approximately 10.65% from the 30% liquid) appears quite low for achieving a natural beige tone that brightens 1-2 shades. This ratio might result in a shade that looks too white or ashy rather than a natural skin tone. Adjusting the ratio and potentially adding other Iron Oxides (Yellow, Red, Black) is recommended to fine-tune the color and ensure sufficient, natural-looking coverage.
  • Oil Control & Matte Finish: The formula includes several ingredients known for oil absorption and providing a matte finish, such as Polymethylsilsesquioxane 2microns (5%), BB Micro Silk™ (6%), SelectSorb™ (5%), and Oil-Fix™ W (2%). The total percentage of these powders is high (18%), which should provide excellent oil control and a strong matte effect throughout the day.
  • 24h Wear & Waterproof/Sweatproof: The inclusion of Silicone Film (Very Long-Wear, Hard, Cyclopentasiloxane Base) at 8% is a key component for achieving long wear and transfer resistance. Oil-Fix™ W (2%) also enhances waterproof properties. The water-in-oil emulsion system, stabilized by Water-in-Oil EZ™ (4%) and Magnesium Sulfate (1%), inherently offers better water resistance and longevity compared to oil-in-water systems. This combination should effectively contribute to the 24-hour wear and water/sweat resistance claims.
  • Texture & Feel: Ingredients like LipidSoft™ Lite (5%), Cyclopentasiloxane (10%), Polymethylsilsesquioxane (5%), and BB Micro Silk™ (6%) contribute to a smooth, silky, and lightweight feel during application. However, the high total powder content (18%) might result in a texture that feels quite dry or powdery on the skin. Balancing the powder phase with the emollient/silicone phase is important for optimal skin feel.

Potential Considerations:

  • Color Matching: As noted above, the ratio of Beige Iron Oxides to Titanium Dioxide needs careful evaluation and likely adjustment to achieve the desired skin tone match and brightening effect without an unnatural white or grey cast.
  • Texture Optimization: The high powder load might make the texture feel too dry. Sensory testing and potential adjustments to the levels of powders and emollients could improve the skin feel.
  • Stability: While the chosen emulsifier and stabilizer are suitable for a water-in-oil system, the high percentage of the oil/silicone phase and powders requires thorough stability testing (including temperature variations) to ensure the emulsion remains stable over time.
  • Skin Comfort: The "Very Long-Wear, Hard" type of Silicone Film at 8% might feel slightly tight or uncomfortable on some skin types, particularly drier ones. Testing on various individuals is advisable.
  • Willow Bark Extract: At 5%, Willow Bark Extract provides beneficial properties (exfoliation, anti-irritant, antioxidant). Ensure its inclusion does not negatively impact the stability or aesthetics of this specific emulsion type.

Overall, the formulation incorporates appropriate ingredients to address the key requirements of SPF 50+, oil control, long wear, and water resistance. The primary area requiring careful attention and adjustment is the pigment ratio to achieve the desired color match and natural coverage, along with optimizing the overall texture for comfortable wear.