Home Cosmetic Science Talk Formulating Sunscreen with 20% Zinc oxide?

  • Sunscreen with 20% Zinc oxide?

    Posted by Anonymous on December 12, 2016 at 4:06 pm

    Hi guys.

    I have heard from others saying that it needs a machine to formulate products containing zinc oxide. Why is that? Can it be handmade?

    Also, shall I use nano or non-nano zinc oxide?

    Thanks

    MarkBroussard replied 7 years, 11 months ago 4 Members · 7 Replies
  • 7 Replies
  • Microformulation

    Member
    December 12, 2016 at 4:14 pm

    No, you should never attempt a sunscreen without the proper mixing equipment, extensive knowledge or a healthy testing budget. It is not a DIY product!

    First off, the Zinc oxide is only a small factor in the SPF and Spectrum. There are numerous additives which you should be used to facilitate the consistent spread of the actives, water resistance if desired and the final skin feel. Even TRAINED Cosmetic Chemists either specialize in this area or spend a great deal of time before attempting such a product.

    Secondly, the zinc oxide to be evenly and adequately dispersed will take high energy mixing. Asking if it can be handmade is an absolute disqualifier.

    Lastly, Sunscreen products require costly testing to designate the SPF and Broad Spectrum properties. This is generally out of the reach of most “handmade” budgets.

    No offense, but based upon your questions, this is not a product you should attempt. Period.

  • Anonymous

    Guest
    December 12, 2016 at 6:33 pm

    Thank you very much, your reply is very helpful.

    What kind of proper mixing equipment? Any names?
    At least when I find a manufacturer, I will know whats going on :)

    I understand sunscreen products will need costly testing

  • Bobzchemist

    Member
    December 12, 2016 at 8:10 pm

    This is the kind of thing you should hire a consultant for.

  • OldPerry

    Member
    December 12, 2016 at 8:18 pm

    Here’s a pretty good review of the problems of making your own sunscreen.

    https://realizebeauty.wordpress.com/2012/12/30/the-trouble-with-making-your-own-sunscreen/

  • Microformulation

    Member
    December 12, 2016 at 10:39 pm

    Honestly, if this is a product that you are looking to market, Private Label is more than likely the best way to go. You will get a properly Formulated product, you can piggyback on their testing results (saving money) and then you can use your brand specific labeling.

    As many will point out (and this is a huge truth to incorporate), getting an affordable and effective product is only part of the picture. Using Private Label will allow you to focus your efforts properly on Marketing the Product.

    I wouldn’t even begin to discuss the mixing requirements. If this is a product you want Custom Formulated, as Bobzchemist properly pointed out, HIRE A CONSULTANT. When hiring a Consultant, ask specific questions about their experience with these products. It is much more complicated than simply dispersing Zinc oxide evenly into a run of the mill base.

  • Anonymous

    Guest
    December 14, 2016 at 6:07 pm

    Thank you guys!
    This is the product I wish to develop in future.
    But for now, I am focusing on other products.

    Your opinions are very much appreciated!

  • MarkBroussard

    Member
    December 14, 2016 at 9:05 pm

    You should check out some of the pre dispersions from AppleChem

Log in to reply.

Chemists Corner