Waterproof Oil Control Sunscreen Formulation Issues
Question
I attempted to create a waterproof, oil-controlling sunscreen using Water Capsule as the emulsifier. My formula contained a high percentage of oil (around 55%). The mixture did not emulsify properly when mixed by hand. What is the reason for this failure, and could you recommend a suitable formula and mixing method to achieve a waterproof, oil-controlling sunscreen?
Answer
Subject: Review of Waterproof, Oil-Control Sunscreen Formula
Thank you for submitting your sunscreen formula for review. Based on the expert feedback provided:
1. Formula Review:
- Your original formula used Water Capsule as the emulsifier. The staff noted that Water Capsule can only emulsify an oil phase of up to 20%. Your original formula had a significantly higher oil phase percentage (around 55%), which is why it would not emulsify correctly.
- The staff recommends a revised formula using Water-in-Oil EZ, which is suitable for creating waterproof, water-in-oil emulsions. The revised formula is:
- SPF Protect Ultra: 20%
- LipidSoft Lite: 15%
- Water-in-Oil EZ: 3%
- Matte Silica: 5%
- Preservative: 1%
- Distilled Water: Balance to 100%
- This revised formula includes Matte Silica, which helps with oil control as you requested. The combination of a W/O emulsion base (using Water-in-Oil EZ) and SPF Protect Ultra is designed to provide water resistance. LipidSoft Lite and Matte Silica contribute to the desired skin feel (smooth, non-greasy).
2. Mixing Instructions:
- The mixing steps you proposed are not suitable for a water-in-oil emulsion.
- The staff advises that creating a stable water-in-oil cream requires mechanical blending (using a blender), not just stirring by hand.
- For detailed mixing instructions using Water-in-Oil EZ, please refer to the specific product page for Water-in-Oil EZ on the MySkinRecipes website. The staff indicated that ingredients 1, 2, and 3 (SPF Protect Ultra, LipidSoft Lite, and Water-in-Oil EZ) form the oil phase for mixing with the emulsifier.
In summary, the revised formula and recommended mixing method address the issues with emulsification in your original formula and are designed to help you achieve a waterproof, oil-controlling sunscreen with a pleasant feel.
Related Products Mentioned
MatteSilica 5™ (5 Micron)