Formulation Questions: Fractionated Coconut Oil and SPF Protect Ultra

Regarding your formulation of 80% Fractionated Coconut Oil and 20% SPF Protect Ultra for a shake-to-use, water-resistant body sunscreen:

1. Using Fractionated Coconut Oil at 80% in Strong Sun:
   Fractionated Coconut Oil (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride) is a lightweight emollient and carrier oil. Its primary role in your formula is the base, not the main sun protection ingredient. The sun protection comes from the 20% SPF Protect Ultra. While some natural oils offer minimal SPF, Fractionated Coconut Oil itself does not provide significant protection against strong UV radiation.

   The concern about coconut oil causing sunburn likely arises from the misunderstanding that it provides sufficient sun protection, or that applying oil without adequate sunscreen makes the skin more vulnerable to burning. When combined with an effective sunscreen like SPF Protect Ultra at a sufficient concentration (20% should provide high SPF, based on product information), using Fractionated Coconut Oil as the base is not inherently harmful in strong sun. The key is that the SPF Protect Ultra is properly dissolved and dispersed in the oil base to ensure even and effective coverage.

2. Replacing Fractionated Coconut Oil with Light Paraffinum Liquidum:
   Yes, replacing Fractionated Coconut Oil with a light grade of Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) would be suitable for this type of formulation. Both are oil-based emollients that can act as carriers for oil-soluble sunscreen agents like SPF Protect Ultra.

   Light Paraffinum Liquidum is a stable, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating oil that is commonly used in cosmetic formulations, including sunscreens. It would function similarly to Fractionated Coconut Oil as the base for your shake-to-use, oil-based formula.

   The choice between Fractionated Coconut Oil and light Paraffinum Liquidum often comes down to desired skin feel, cost, and preference regarding ingredient origin (natural vs. mineral-derived). Both can effectively carry the SPF Protect Ultra to provide sun protection, assuming proper formulation and mixing.

In summary, using Fractionated Coconut Oil at 80% is acceptable when combined with adequate SPF protection from SPF Protect Ultra. Replacing it with light Paraffinum Liquidum is also a suitable option for your formulation.