Sunscreen Formulation Compatibility and Stability
Question
Based on the following sunscreen formulation, are the ingredients compatible and can they be mixed together?
- Water 69%
- Zinc Oxide 35nm Liquid 12%
- Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid (Gloss) 7%
- Sensitive Cream Maker 2%
- Polymethylsilsesquioxane 7microns (Soft-Focus / Matte) 3%
- Grape Seed Oil 3%
- Argan Oil 3%
- Mild Preserved Eco 1%
Answer
Sunscreen Formulation Compatibility
Regarding the sunscreen formulation you provided, the ingredients are generally compatible and can likely be mixed together to create a physical sunscreen in a water-in-oil emulsion system.
Here's a breakdown of the key components:
- Zinc Oxide 35nm Liquid and Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid (Gloss): These are the active physical sunscreen ingredients. They are designed for use in water-in-oil emulsions and are often used together for broad-spectrum UV protection.
- Sensitive Cream Maker: This acts as the emulsifier to create the cream texture. It is suitable for water-in-oil systems and can handle a certain percentage of oil and silicones.
- Polymethylsilsesquioxane 7microns: This ingredient is typically used for texture enhancement and a soft-focus effect.
- Grape Seed Oil and Argan Oil: These are emollient oils that contribute to the feel of the cream.
- Mild Preserved Eco: This is a preservative to ensure the stability and safety of the formulation.
While the ingredients are compatible in principle for this type of formulation, the high combined percentage of the Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide liquids (19%) and the relatively low percentage of the Sensitive Cream Maker (2%) might present a challenge in achieving a perfectly stable emulsion. These liquid sunscreen dispersions contain silicones, and while the cream maker can handle some silicone, the total amount from both dispersions could be high.
Therefore, while you can mix these ingredients, you may need to use a careful mixing technique, potentially high shear mixing, and observe the stability of the resulting cream over time. You might also consider slightly increasing the percentage of the Sensitive Cream Maker or adding a co-emulsifier or thickener if you encounter stability issues or want a thicker texture.
Related Products Mentioned
Argan Oil (Virgin - Deodorized)
Soft Cream Maker™
Titanium Dioxide 15nm Liquid (Gloss)
Zinc Oxide 35nm Liquid