Sunscreen Formulation Separation and Spray Filling Machines

Asked by: aon.ohn On: June 06, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I am encountering separation issues with my sunscreen formulation, which uses 1% Phenonip® P4. The texture appears inconsistent ("mixed sometimes, sometimes not") and becomes "creamy, leaning towards Water drop" when blended further. The staff tested the formula and did not find any separation. Could the issue be related to the process, specifically Phenonip® P4 solubility, blending technique, or temperature control?

Additionally, what type of machine is needed for filling spray sunscreen for sale (liquid spray vs. aerosol spray)?

Answer

Hello,

Thank you for the update. The staff has tested the formula you provided and reported that they did not encounter any separation issues.

Since the formula worked correctly in their test, the problem you are experiencing might be related to the specific process or conditions during your preparation.

Here are a few points to consider based on your description and the staff's previous advice:

  1. Phenonip® P4 Solubility: The staff previously mentioned that Phenonip® P4 should be dissolved in the water phase at a concentration no higher than 1% of the water amount. In your formula (1% Phenonip® P4 in approximately 50% water), the concentration of Phenonip® P4 within the water phase is around 2% (1% / 50%). This might exceed the solubility limit of Phenonip® P4 in water, causing it to precipitate or not fully dissolve, which can destabilize the emulsion. Please try reducing the concentration of Phenonip® P4 in the water phase, or ensure it is completely dissolved before combining the phases.
  2. Blending Technique: Your description "เนื้อดูเข้ากันบ้างไม่เข้ากันบ้าง" (the texture looks mixed sometimes, sometimes not) and "ยิ่งปั่นก็ดูจะเป็นครีมๆ ออกแนว Water drop" (the more I blend, it looks like a cream, leaning towards Water drop) suggests that the emulsion might not be forming properly or is breaking. Emulsification requires sufficient shear force to create small, stable droplets. What type of blender are you using (e.g., overhead stirrer, hand blender, homogenizer)? Ensure you are blending at an adequate speed and for sufficient time, especially when initially combining the heated oil phase (B) and water phase (A). Maintaining the temperature around 70°C during the initial emulsification step and blending until a stable emulsion forms before cooling is also crucial.
  3. Temperature Control: Ensure the temperatures of both phases are appropriate (around 70°C) when combining them and that blending continues as the mixture cools to room temperature.

Regarding your second question about the machine for filling spray sunscreen for sale:

  • Liquid Spray Sunscreen: If you are making a liquid spray (using a trigger spray or pump spray bottle), you would typically use a standard liquid filling machine.
  • Aerosol Spray Sunscreen: If you intend to make an aerosol spray (like a spray can), this requires specialized aerosol filling equipment, which is more complex and involves filling the product concentrate and then adding propellant under pressure.

The type of machine needed depends on the specific type of spray product you want to create.

I hope these suggestions help you troubleshoot the separation issue.