Sunscreen Formula Adjustment for SPF 30
Question
Based on the provided sunscreen formula for 1000g (1. Distilled water 600g, 2. Zinc Oxide 150g, 3. Caprylyl Methicone 50g, 4. Glycerine 20g, 5. Isopropyl Myristate (IPM) 50g, 6. Carthamus tinctorius seed oil 40g, 7. Cetearyl Alcohol 40g, 8. Steric Acid 40g, 9. Phenoxyethanol 10g), how can the formula be modified to increase the SPF from 4.5 to SPF 30?
Answer
Sunscreen Formula Adjustment for SPF 30
To increase the SPF of your sunscreen formula from 4.5 to 30, you will need to significantly increase the concentration of UV filters. Achieving SPF 30 typically requires a higher total percentage of active sunscreen ingredients, often a combination of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, to provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Simply increasing the percentage of the current Zinc Oxide might not be sufficient or provide the best texture and aesthetics. We recommend using dispersed forms of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, which are designed for easier incorporation into emulsions and help minimize the white cast on the skin while providing effective UV protection.
Here is a proposed revised formula aiming for SPF 30. Please note that achieving a specific SPF value requires laboratory testing, and the exact percentages may need adjustment based on the specific raw materials used and the formulation process.
Proposed Sunscreen Formula (1000g):
- Distilled water: 530 g
- Zinc Oxide (Dispersed form, e.g., Water Base or Isopropyl Palmitate Base): 150 g
- Titanium Dioxide (Dispersed form, e.g., Water-Dispersion or Nanosil): 100 g
- Caprylyl Methicone: 40 g
- Glycerin: 20 g
- Isopropyl Myristate: 40 g
- Carthamus tinctorius seed oil: 30 g
- Cetearyl Alcohol: 30 g
- Stearic Acid: 30 g
- Phenoxyethanol: 10 g
Key Changes:
- Increased the total amount of UV filters (Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide) to 25% of the formula.
- Introduced Titanium Dioxide as a co-filter to enhance broad-spectrum protection and boost SPF.
- Recommended using dispersed forms of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide for better performance and aesthetics in an emulsion.
Remember to ensure proper dispersion of the UV filters during the manufacturing process for optimal performance.
Related Products Mentioned
Glycerin (USP/Food Grade)
Phenoxyethanol (Extra Pure)
Cetearyl Alcohol (50/50, e.q. Lanette O)
Caprylyl Methicone
Isopropyl Myristate (Deodorized)
Titanium Dioxide Nanosil