Nano Zinc Oxide in Formulations

Yes, nano-powdered Zinc Oxide (nano-ZnO) can be used with solvents or bases, and it can be included as an ingredient in shampoo formulations.

Different types of nano Zinc Oxide powder have varying properties and are designed to disperse in specific types of bases:

• Uncoated Powder: Some uncoated nano Zinc Oxide powders, such as Zinc Oxide (Ultra-Fine, Non-Yellow, Non-Coated, USP) and Zinc Oxide (Micronized), can be dispersed in water. High-speed mixing or the use of high HLB emulsifiers can help achieve better dispersion.
• Coated Powder: Other nano Zinc Oxide powders are coated (e.g., with Triethoxycaprylylsilane) to make them easily dispersible in oil or silicone bases, such as Zinc Oxide (20nm, Triethoxycaprylylsilane Coated) or Zinc Oxide 200nm EasyDisperse™.
• Liquid Dispersions: Pre-dispersed liquid forms of nano Zinc Oxide are also available, already mixed in bases like water (e.g., Zinc Oxide 40nm Dispersion (Water Base)), oil (e.g., Zinc Oxide Transparent Dispersion (C12-15 alkyl benzoate Base), Zinc Oxide Transparent Dispersion (Isopropyl Palmitate Base)), or silicone (e.g., Zinc Oxide 35nm Liquid). These are generally easier to incorporate into formulations.

Regarding its use in shampoo, certain types of Zinc Oxide, like Zinc Oxide (Ultra-Fine, Non-Yellow, Non-Coated, USP), are specifically mentioned as suitable for applications such as anti-dandruff shampoo. When incorporating powdered Zinc Oxide into a shampoo, proper dispersion is crucial for stability and effectiveness. Using a water-dispersible powder or a water-based dispersion would be the most suitable options for a water-based shampoo formula.