Cosmetic sunscreens should provide adequate protection, care for the skin and have a long shelf life. They are usually marketed as a lotion, cream or liquid emulsion. We design and supply homogenising mixers that enable you to incorporate UV filters quickly and effectively. More on this under Cosmetics.
Product forms
W/O emulsions
Products with a high protection factor are often greasier and difficult to wash off. This supports the effect of the UV filters.
Pump sprays
They are based on low-viscosity emulsions and are becoming increasingly popular.
Ingredients and UV filters
In addition to water and light protection filters, sunscreens usually contain glycerine, fatty acids, silicone oils, emulsifiers, humectants, flavourings, oil components, thickeners and antioxidants. The most important components, however, are the UV filters. They can be organic or inorganic, for example titanium dioxide. They protect the skin by scattering, reflecting or absorbing UV radiation.
Requirements for the homogenising mixer
A good homogeniser design improves the effectiveness of the UV filters in the finished product. The following are important:
- Fast, efficient combination of all substances
- Incorporation of several UV filters in a short time
- Particle size reduction and fine distribution with high-shear homogenisers, see dispersing
- Emulsifying of O/W and W/O systems
- cGMP design and appropriately designed CIP systems, also for water-resistant products containing wax
Are you planning a plant for sun protection products? We will be happy to advise you, including on used homogenising mixers.
FAQ: Manufacturing sunscreens
How are sunscreens formulated?
Usually as an O/W emulsion (lotion, cream, spray), and for a high sun protection factor or water resistance also as a W/O emulsion. They contain organic and/or mineral UV filters, oils, emulsifiers, humectants, thickeners and antioxidants.
How are mineral UV filters incorporated?
Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are drawn in with little dust under vacuum and dispersed with high shear so that no agglomerates form and the protection is uniform.
Why is homogenisation so important?
Fine droplets and well-distributed filters ensure an even film on the skin, stable emulsions and a reliable sun protection factor.
What needs to be considered during cleaning?
Water-resistant products with waxes and a high SPF are difficult to clean. A powerful, GMP-compliant CIP system significantly shortens cleaning times.
Does SEEFRIED offer plants for sun protection?
Yes, we design emulsion plants and supply inspected used homogenising mixers.