Understanding Sunscreen Ingredients and Clogged Pores

Thank you for providing the ingredient lists for Spectraban SC and ANTHELIOS XL EXTREME FLUID SPF 50+ PPD38. I understand your concern about clogged pores, potentially linked to the silicone ingredients in Spectraban SC.

Silicones in Sunscreens

Silicones such as Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cyclohexasiloxane, and Cetyl Dimethicone are widely used in cosmetic formulations, including sunscreens. They are valued for their ability to provide a smooth, silky feel, reduce greasiness, improve spreadability, and enhance water resistance.

While silicones form a breathable film on the skin, they are generally considered non-comedogenic for most individuals. However, skin reactions can be highly individual. In some cases, the film formed by silicones might trap other ingredients or contribute to clogged pores, especially if the product is not thoroughly removed during cleansing.

Spectraban SC contains several silicones, which could be a factor in your experience with clogged pores if your skin is sensitive to these ingredients or if the product's texture is not compatible with your skin type.

Sunscreen Filters in Your Products

Both sunscreens you mentioned use a combination of chemical and/or physical UV filters:

• Spectraban SC contains Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (UVB), Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (BEMT - broad-spectrum UVA/UVB), and Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate (DHHB - UVA). BEMT and DHHB are known for their good photostability and broad-spectrum protection.
• ANTHELIOS XL EXTREME FLUID SPF 50+ PPD38 contains Octocrylene (UVB, UVA II), Titanium Dioxide (physical filter), Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone - UVA), Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine (BEMT - broad-spectrum UVA/UVB), Drometrizole Trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL - UVA/UVB), and Ethylhexyl Triazone (UVB). This formula provides robust broad-spectrum protection using a variety of filters, including highly stable ones like BEMT, DHHB, and Drometrizole Trisiloxane.

If you suspect silicones are causing your clogged pores, you might look for sunscreens formulated with alternative emollients or different types of silicones that might be better suited for your skin.

Availability of Sunscreen Ingredients at MySkinRecipes

Regarding your question about MySkinRecipes selling sunscreen ingredients, the staff has indicated that while they do have access to such products, they are currently evaluating whether to offer them for sale. The primary consideration is the necessity of specialized equipment, such as a UV testing meter, to accurately measure the SPF and PA values of homemade sunscreen formulations. This is crucial to ensure that the final product provides effective and safe UV protection. Unlike measuring pH for AHA/BHA products, UV testing equipment is significantly more expensive. MySkinRecipes aims to ensure customers can use products correctly and achieve desired results safely, which is why they are carefully considering the feasibility of selling sunscreen ingredients.