Preservatives and Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin, choosing gentle ingredients is crucial. Here are some recommendations for preservatives and sunscreens that are often well-tolerated:

Preservatives for Sensitive Skin

Look for preservatives known for their mildness or natural origin. Some options include:

• NaturePreserve™ Ultra (Gluconolactone & Sodium Benzoate): A natural preservative blend effective in a pH range of 3-6.
• Ethylhexylglycerin: A gentle ingredient that also acts as a humectant. It is typically used in combination with other preservatives.
• PaeoniaPreserve™: A natural preservative derived from Paeonia root extract.
• Probio-Protect™ (Lactobacillus Ferment Preservative): A probiotic-derived ingredient that functions as a preservative and can also offer moisturizing benefits.
• Global Guard™ 221: A water-soluble, broad-spectrum preservative effective in a pH range of 2-7.
• Mild Preserved™ COS: A broad-spectrum, water-soluble preservative with no odor, effective in a wide pH range of 2-8.
• Coco-Preserve™: A natural origin preservative derived from coconut extract, water-soluble and effective in pH 4-8.

When formulating, consider the required pH range and the type of product (e.g., cream, serum) to select the most suitable preservative or combination.

Sunscreens for Sensitive Skin

For sensitive skin, physical sunscreens are often recommended as they sit on top of the skin and block UV rays without being absorbed. However, some newer chemical filters are also well-tolerated.

• Physical Sunscreens: Ingredients like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are physical blockers and are generally considered safe and non-irritating for sensitive skin. The Pure Physical Sunscreen base contains both Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide and is designed to be non-white.
• New Generation Chemical Filters: Filters such as BEMT (Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine) and Bisoctrizole (MBBT) are highly stable and provide broad-spectrum protection. They are often used in high-end formulations and can be suitable for sensitive skin. Products like Fluid Extreme Sunscreen and Light Invisible Sunscreen utilize these advanced filters for high protection with light textures, although it's worth noting they may contain alcohol which could be irritating for some individuals.

It is always recommended to perform a patch test with any new product or formulation on a small area of skin to check for sensitivity before applying it widely.