Sunscreen Cream Formulation and Mixing Instructions

Asked by: kimjidjee On: June 20, 2015 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I would like to request a review and suggested mixing instructions for a sunscreen cream formulation. The expert has provided a revised formula and comments on the ingredients:

Revised Formula Components:

  • Distilled water: 62.5%
  • SPF Protect Ultra: 25%
  • Cyclopentasiloxane (Low-Odor): 5% (Reduced from 20%)
  • MatteSilica: 5%
  • Light Cream Maker: 1.5%
  • Phenoxyethanol: 1%
  • SiliSolve Plus: 0.5% (Removed)

The expert mentioned that the original 20% Cyclopentasiloxane was too high, causing an excessively slippery feeling, and that Light Cream Maker can emulsify the formula without needing SiliSolve Plus. The expert also noted that while Light Cream Maker is typically for formulas with up to 20% oil, this formula has 30% oil/silicone phase, which might affect stability.

Could you please provide detailed mixing instructions for this revised formula, taking into account the need to emulsify a high oil/silicone load? Also, please confirm the rationale behind the ingredient adjustments, particularly the reduction of Cyclopentasiloxane and removal of SiliSolve Plus.

Answer

Sunscreen Formula Review and Mixing Instructions

Based on the revised formula you provided and the properties of the ingredients, here is a review and suggested mixing procedure:

Revised Formula

The adjusted formula with recalculated water percentage is:

  • Distilled water: 62.5%
  • SPF Protect Ultra: 25%
  • Cyclopentasiloxane (Low-Odor): 5%
  • MatteSilica: 5%
  • Light Cream Maker: 1.5%
  • Phenoxyethanol: 1%
  • SiliSolve Plus: 0% (removed as suggested)

This formula aims for a high SPF, lightweight, non-greasy, and potentially water-resistant finish.

  • SPF Protect Ultra (25%): This high concentration is intended to provide very high SPF and broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection, suitable for frequent sun exposure. Note that there are different versions (II and III); SPF Protect Ultra III at 25% is indicated to provide SPF 70-100.
  • Cyclopentasiloxane (5%): Reducing this silicone helps achieve a lighter, less slippery feel compared to the original 20%, while still providing a smooth application.
  • MatteSilica (5%): This ingredient helps absorb excess oil, contributing to a matte finish and reducing the appearance of a white cast.
  • Light Cream Maker (1.5%): This acts as the emulsifier to create the cream texture. It works without heat but can be used with heat.
  • Phenoxyethanol (1%): This is a preservative to ensure the product remains stable and safe from microbial growth.

Potential Consideration

Light Cream Maker is generally recommended for formulas with up to 20% oil. Your formula has a total oil/silicone phase of 30% (25% SPF Protect Ultra + 5% Cyclopentasiloxane). While Light Cream Maker can bond with silicone, this high oil/silicone load might challenge the stability of the emulsion. You may need to carefully observe the stability of the finished product over time.

Mixing Instructions

Here is a suggested method for mixing the revised formula:

  1. Prepare the Water Phase (Phase A): In a container, combine the Distilled water and MatteSilica. Stir or blend well to ensure the MatteSilica powder is fully dispersed in the water. Set aside Phenoxyethanol for later.
  2. Prepare the Oil/Silicone Phase (Phase B): In a separate container, combine SPF Protect Ultra, Cyclopentasiloxane, and Light Cream Maker.
  3. Heat Phases: Gently heat Phase B to 70-80°C while stirring until the SPF Protect Ultra is completely melted and the phase is uniform. Heat Phase A to a similar temperature (around 70-80°C).
  4. Emulsify: Slowly add Phase A (water phase) to Phase B (oil/silicone phase) while continuously stirring or blending vigorously. Maintain high-speed mixing for at least 15 minutes to form a stable oil-in-water emulsion.
  5. Cooling: Allow the mixture to cool while stirring occasionally.
  6. Add Preservative: Once the temperature drops below 60°C, add Phenoxyethanol and mix until fully incorporated.
  7. Final Mixing: Continue stirring until the cream cools to room temperature and achieves the desired smooth, creamy consistency.

Regarding the "LIKE" Button

The "Click LIKE" feature you mentioned is likely a function of the specific website forum where you found the original post. It is a way for users to show appreciation for helpful replies within that forum system. As an AI assistant, I don't have the ability to interact with website-specific features like "LIKE" buttons. You would need to look for that button within the forum interface itself, usually near the post you found helpful.