Sunscreen Formula Analysis: SPF, Mixing, and Texture
Question
Regarding the following formula, what is the expected SPF value (aiming for SPF 50)? What are the mixing instructions for this formula? What is the expected texture of the resulting cream? Formula: water 54%, Cyclomethicone 10%, Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid 25%, Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse 10%, Mild Preserved Eco 1%
Answer
Sunscreen Formula Analysis
Based on the ingredients and percentages in your formula:
- Water 54%
- Cyclomethicone 10%
- Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid 25%
- Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse 10%
- Mild Preserved Eco 1%
This formula is designed as a physical sunscreen using Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide. The combination and concentrations of these UV filters are expected to provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
SPF Value
Based on information for the Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid, a similar formula containing 25% of this ingredient along with Cyclomethicone, water, and preservative achieved an SPF of over 50. Your formula includes the same amount of this Titanium Dioxide and Cyclomethicone, plus an additional 10% Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse, which also contributes to UV protection. Therefore, this formula is expected to achieve an SPF of 50 or higher, meeting your requirement. Please note that the exact SPF value requires laboratory testing of the final product.
Mixing Instructions
This formula appears to be a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion. Here are the recommended mixing steps:
- Combine the Cyclomethicone, Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid, and Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse in a container.
- Heat this mixture to approximately 70 degrees Celsius and stir until the UV filters are fully dispersed and the mixture is uniform.
- In a separate container, measure out the water.
- While continuously blending the heated oil/silicone phase vigorously, gradually add the water phase.
- Continue blending until a stable emulsion is formed.
- Once the emulsion has cooled down, add the Mild Preserved Eco and blend until fully incorporated.
Expected Texture
The resulting cream is expected to have a soft, smooth, and silky texture due to the presence of Cyclomethicone. As a water-in-oil emulsion containing physical sunscreens, it will likely feel substantial on the skin, provide good adherence, and offer a protective layer. While the specific grades of Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide used are designed to minimize whitening, physical sunscreens can sometimes leave a slightly shiny finish on the skin.
Related Products Mentioned
Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse™
Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid (Gloss)