Sunscreen Formulation for Sensitive Skin and Seborrheic Dermatitis (Outdoor Work)
Question
I would like to create a sunscreen for personal use. My skin is sensitive and I also have seborrheic dermatitis. I work outdoors.
Could you please suggest a suitable formula?
Answer
Sunscreen Formulation for Sensitive Skin and Seborrheic Dermatitis
For sensitive skin prone to seborrheic dermatitis and working outdoors, a physical sunscreen is generally recommended as it is less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical sunscreens. Physical sunscreens use mineral ingredients like Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide to block UV rays.
We recommend considering a pre-made physical sunscreen base for ease of formulation and proven efficacy. The Pure Physical Sunscreen (SPF50+, PA3+, Water-in-Oil, Non-White) base is a good option. It offers high SPF 50+ and PA+++ protection suitable for strong sun exposure and is designed to be gentle on the skin. It contains 15% Zinc Oxide and 5% Titanium Dioxide.
This base has a light, non-white texture and is in a water-in-oil system. You can use this base at 90-100% and add other beneficial ingredients suitable for sensitive or seborrheic skin if desired.
Alternatively, if you prefer to formulate from scratch, you would need to combine physical UV filters like Zinc Oxide (Ultra-Fine, Non-Yellow, Non-Coated, USP) and Titanium Dioxide Nanosil with appropriate base ingredients (emulsifiers, oils, water, etc.) to create a stable and effective sunscreen emulsion. However, formulating a stable and effective sunscreen from individual powders requires expertise and testing to ensure proper dispersion and sun protection levels.
Using the pre-made base is often simpler and more reliable for achieving high, broad-spectrum protection suitable for working outdoors while minimizing potential irritation for sensitive skin and seborrheic dermatitis.