Silicone Gel Substitution in Silk Sunscreen

You're asking about substituting Silicone Gel (Eco) for Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear, Super Silky) in a silk sunscreen formulation to reduce cost, and how this affects performance and quality.

Based on the links you provided, both "Silicone Gel (Eco)" and "Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear)" appear to refer to the same product: Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear, Super Silky) (Product ID 201).

This specific silicone gel is known for its:

• Ultra-clear appearance
• Increased spreadability
• Ability to provide a soft, smooth, light, and non-sticky feel
• Contribution to a matte look and skin blurring effect
• Highest level of softness and silky texture compared to other silicone gels.

If you are considering using a different silicone gel that is lower in cost as a substitute for Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear, Super Silky), you should expect differences in the final product's performance and quality.

Different silicone gels offer varying characteristics:

• Sensory Feel: They can range from very silky and smooth (like ID 201) to more powdery, matte, or even slightly heavier. A substitute may not provide the same luxurious "silk" feel.
• Spreadability: While most silicones improve spreadability, the degree can vary.
• Aesthetics: The "ultra clear" property of ID 201 is important for product appearance. Other silicone gels might be less clear or have a different visual impact.
• Formulation Stability: Some silicone gels are better at suspending powders or pigments commonly found in silk sunscreens. A substitute might affect the stability or homogeneity of your formulation.

In summary, while a lower-cost silicone gel might function in the formulation, it is unlikely to perfectly replicate the specific sensory profile, clarity, and high-quality feel provided by Silicone Gel (Ultra Clear, Super Silky). The exact difference will depend on the properties of the specific silicone gel chosen as a substitute.