High SPF Sunscreen Lip Balm: Ingredient Safety and Formulation
Question
I want to make a high SPF sunscreen lip balm. What chemical sunscreen ingredients (like Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, om-cinnamate/Octinoxate, Oxybenzone) can be used? Are physical sunscreens (Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide) safer for lip products? Is it true that very high SPF doesn't provide much extra benefit? Are Octinoxate and Oxybenzone available for purchase, and are there safety concerns with them?
Answer
Hello! I understand you're interested in making high SPF sunscreen lip balm.
Chemical sunscreen ingredients that can be used for high SPF:
C7 suggested several sunscreen ingredients that can be used, including chemical sunscreens like Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, om-cinnamate (or Octinoxate), and Oxybenzone. However, C7 emphasized that for lip products which might be ingested, choosing physical sunscreens like Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide is safer. They also mentioned Badger lip balm as an example that uses only Zinc Oxide. Additionally, C7 mentioned that very high SPF might not provide significantly increased benefits.Availability of Octinoxate and Oxybenzone:
The staff team stated that they do not sell Octinoxate and Oxybenzone. The reason is due to safety concerns. Octinoxate may cause skin irritation and many people are allergic to it. Several studies indicate potential dangers of Oxybenzone, such as skin absorption and potential effects on the hormonal system and skin cells.
Hope this information is helpful!