Sunscreen Formulation Modifications for Hand Mixing

Regarding your questions about modifying the sunscreen formula for hand mixing:

1. Cyclomethicone Replacement

Yes, you can replace Cyclomethicone. Suitable alternatives that offer a similar feel and are soluble in the oil phase include:

• LipidSoft™ Cyclo: This is specifically developed as a direct replacement for Cyclomethicone, providing a smooth feel and fast evaporation.
• LipidSoft™ D5: Another excellent replacement for Cyclomethicone, known for its good volatility, slip, and smooth feel.

Both of these can be incorporated into the oil phase of your water-in-oil formula. When mixing by hand, ensure thorough stirring of the oil phase to fully disperse all ingredients before slowly adding the water phase.

2. Adding SPF Boosters (SPF Protect Ultra™ II or Tinosorb M)

• SPF Protect Ultra™ II: This is an oil-soluble sunscreen blend. While it can significantly boost SPF/PA, achieving optimal dissolution and dispersion typically requires heating the oil phase to 70-80°C and blending for an extended period (around 15 minutes). This might be challenging to replicate effectively with hand mixing, potentially impacting the final SPF performance and stability.
• Bisoctrizole (MBBT, e.q. Tinosorb M): This UV filter is water-dispersible. It can be added to the water phase of your formula. This might be more feasible for hand mixing compared to SPF Protect Ultra™ II, as you can disperse it in the water phase before combining with the oil phase. You can add Bisoctrizole (MBBT, e.q. Tinosorb M) at a usage rate of up to 10% according to FDA regulations. Keep in mind that achieving a perfectly uniform dispersion by hand may still require diligent stirring.

For hand mixing, adding Bisoctrizole (MBBT, e.q. Tinosorb M) to the water phase is likely easier than incorporating SPF Protect Ultra™ II into the oil phase to achieve good dispersion.

3. Adding Beige Iron Oxide EasyMix™

Yes, you can add Beige Iron Oxides EasyMix™ to this formula. This product is designed for easy dispersion in oil or silicone, even with hand stirring, making it suitable for your water-in-oil base. You can add it to the oil phase along with the other oil-soluble ingredients and sunscreens. The usage rate can be adjusted from 1% to 20% depending on the desired color intensity to match your skin tone.

When mixing by hand, ensure each phase (oil and water) is thoroughly stirred before combining them slowly with continuous stirring until the cream forms.