Cosmetic sunscreens should protect sufficiently, care for the skin and have a long shelf life. They are usually sold as a lotion, cream or liquid emulsion. We plan and supply homogenising mixers that let you incorporate UV filters quickly and effectively. Find out more in our cosmetics section.
Product forms
W/O emulsions
Products with a high protection factor are often greasier and hard to wash off. This supports the effect of the UV filters.
Pump sprays
They are based on thin emulsions and are becoming increasingly popular.
Ingredients and UV filters
Besides water and light protection filters, sunscreens usually contain glycerine, fatty acids, silicone oils, emulsifiers, humectants, flavours, oil components, thickeners and antioxidants. However, the most important components 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 key points are:
- Fast, efficient combining of all substances
- Incorporating several UV filters in a short time
- Particle size reduction and fine distribution with high-shear homogenisers, see dispersion
- Emulsification of O/W and W/O systems
- cGMP design and suitably designed CIP systems, also for water-resistant products with wax content
Are you planning a plant for sun protection products? We are happy to advise you, including on used homogenising mixers.
FAQ: Producing sunscreens
How are sunscreens formulated?
Mostly as O/W emulsions (lotion, cream, spray), for high SPF or water resistance also as W/O emulsions. 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 low dust under vacuum and dispersed with high shear so that no agglomerates form and 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 should be considered for cleaning?
Water-resistant products with waxes and high SPF are difficult to clean. A powerful, GMP-compliant CIP system significantly reduces cleaning times.
Does SEEFRIED offer plants for sun care?
Yes, we plan emulsion plants and supply inspected used homogenising mixers.