Based on the above discussion, the first and simplest strategy for modern sunscreen formulation must be to use a lower concentration and number of UV filters to achieve the target UV efficacy level or, in other words, identify the most efficient sunscreen systems. Beyond this, there are other approaches that are often utilized to manage the trade-offs of the various sunscreen actives. These include:
• The use of cosmetic powders to reduce the greasiness of the oily UV filters or solvents. These powders can absorb oily materials and give the product a drier skin feel.
• Adding oil-soluble film-forming polymers to thicken the oily sunscreen actives and solvents/emollients, thus reducing slick/oily/greasy feel on the skin. Such polymers are also important as they increase the efficiency/efficacy of the sunscreen product by improving uniform skin coverage or film.
• Incorporating silicone emollients to reduce the draggy, dry skin feel of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide sunscreen actives.
• Utilizing alternative product forms to minimize product skin feel negatives, such as using rub-free sprays.
It is these types of technologies, driving efficiency and promoting aesthetics, which have given birth to the new generation of sunscreens, allowing even products with SPF greater than 15 to be formulated as recreational as well as daily use products such as
moisturizers. Importantly, these optimized sunscreen products can have excellent aesthetics that improve compliance and afford greater protection.