Formula Focus: Clear Sun Care Stick

This clear sun care stick, offered by Inolex, features Hawaii-compliant UV filters to protect the user and environment, as well as the company's humectant/pigment-dispersing emollient, dry sensory emollient/UV filter solubilizer, biodegradable film former and natural preservation system.

More specifically, the company's ingredients highlighted include the following. 

• LexFeel 700 MB (INCI: Polyester-4), a cushiony humectant and pigment-dispersing emollient with benefits such as oxidation resistance.
• LexFeel 7 (INCI: Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate), a light, dry and spreadable sensory emollient. This ester is reportedly excellent for solubilizing UV filters and dispersing pigments. Also, per the company, it imparts a non-greasy after-feel and reduces the tackiness of heavier emollients.
• WetFilm MB (INCI: Trimethylpentanediol/Adipic Acid/Glycerin Crosspolymer), a biodegradable, water-resistant film former that remains clear when applied to wet skin.
• Spectrastat G2 Natural MB (INCI: Caprylhydroxamic Acid (and) Glyceryl Caprylate (and) Glycerin), a natural preservation system that protects the formula against yeast, mold and bacteria.

(Click on image to enlarge.)Inolex

Procedure: Combine Items 1-8 in a beaker and heat to 110°C while mixing. Remove from heat when solution is clear. Add item 9 at 85°C and continue mixing. Pour into suitable container at 75-80°C and allow to solidify; properties: clear yellow gel stick; stability: F/T, four weeks at 50°C, 12 weeks at 45°C; testing: SPF: FDA 2019, in vitro SPF: 40+; critical wavelength: FDA Method, 0.92 mg/cm²; patents: *US Patent No. 5,989,527 and Patent Pending, **US Patent No. 7,317,068 and *** US Patent No. 8,993,641 B2 and EU Patent No. 2,224,973 B1. 

Editor's note: The products highlighted in our Formula Focus series are chosen at the editor's discretion and demonstrate key ingredients from the given supplier to create it.