4 Next-Gen Mineral Sun Care Formulations

As cosmetic formulators navigate growing consumer expectations, mineral sunscreen formulations are taking center stage. Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, mineral sunscreens like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide act as physical blockers—reflecting UV rays off the skin’s surface.

One of the main reasons behind their surge in popularity is the increasing demand for clean, reef-safe SPF solutions. Shoppers are scrutinizing ingredient lists, prioritizing options that are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate—chemicals now banned in many coastal regions.

But it's not just about safety—today’s consumers want more from their sunscreens. We're seeing a clear trend toward hybrid skincare-suncare products that offer hydration, barrier support, and a radiant finish. Sensorial textures, such as balmy sticks and lightweight bases, are becoming the new standard. And with a growing interest in multifunctionality, sunscreen is no longer a one-step chore—it's part of a full beauty routine.

For formulators, the shift opens the door to innovate with customizable SPF bases, radiant finishes, and all-in-one skin-perfecting benefits—while staying rooted in efficacy and transparency.

When it comes to crafting effective and elegant SPF products, the base sets the tone. Our Mineral Sunscreen Base #81-7-2 is designed as a sunscreen base for customization, giving formulators the flexibility to create a range of mineral SPF formats with ease.

This lightweight, spreadable base glides effortlessly across the skin and layers well with other skincare or cosmetic products. It provides an ideal starting point for both daily wear sunscreens and more targeted formulations.

Engineered for compatibility with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, this base helps achieve smooth dispersion and uniform coverage—key to delivering reliable broad-spectrum protection without a heavy or chalky finish.

Whether you're formulating for glow, matte, or skin barrier benefits, you can easily incorporate SPF booster ingredients or textural enhancers to fine-tune performance and sensorial feel. From a standalone product to a buildable base for multifunctional hybrids, this formulation is your blank canvas.

For formulators seeking a dependable daily SPF, Mineral Zincscreen #81-64-1 delivers broad-spectrum mineral protection with a smooth, wearable finish. This formula showcases the best of mineral sunscreen formulations, offering a high-performance zinc oxide base without the traditional whitening effect.

Its elegant texture blends easily into skin, making it ideal for sensitive skin and daily wear. The non-greasy, non-chalky feel makes it a strong foundation for both skincare routines and makeup layering—appealing to consumers who want SPF without compromising their aesthetic or skin comfort.

Compatible with a range of SPF booster ingredients, this sunscreen is also a great option for enhancing UV performance without increasing the active load. Whether used on its own or as part of a multi-step beauty regimen, this formulation meets the need for sun protection that feels as good as it functions.

If your customers are asking for makeup-skincare hybrids, Get the Glow Mineral Sunscreen #81-52-2 delivers. This tinted mineral sunscreen combines sheer coverage with reliable sun protection—making it a go-to option for “no-makeup” makeup looks.

Formulated with a radiant, light-reflective finish, this product adds instant glow while evening out skin tone. It’s ideal for bare-skin days when consumers want a healthy look with minimal effort, or as a priming base under foundation.

With its skin-first approach and natural tint, this mineral glow sunscreen is also suitable for inclusive shade formulations, offering a luminous finish across a variety of skin tones. For brands straddling the line between color cosmetics and sun care, this formula bridges performance with beauty seamlessly.

Creating effective sun care goes beyond choosing the right filters—it requires a strategic approach to compatibility, performance, and positioning. This cosmetic formulator sun care guide offers essential considerations for developing next-gen SPF products that meet both functional and consumer expectations.

Start with use levels of mineral filters: Zinc oxide is typically used between 5–25%, and titanium dioxide between 2–15%, depending on the desired SPF level, formulation type, and regional regulations. Proper dispersion and particle sizing are crucial to avoid whitening and ensure consistent protection.

Integrating SPF booster ingredients like film-formers, dispersion aids, and light-diffusing powders can significantly improve SPF efficacy without increasing the active load. Always test compatibility—some boosters can destabilize emulsions or impact skin feel when used at higher levels.

Don’t overlook stability and preservation guidance. Sunscreens should maintain uniformity, UV performance, and microbial safety under heat, light, and long-term storage. Testing across packaging types is especially important for balms and sticks.

Finally, build trust through clear and substantiated consumer claims. Focus on terms like “broad spectrum,” “non-comedogenic,” “reef-friendly,” and “fragrance-free”—all of which are increasingly sought after and can be supported by data-driven testing and compliant marketing.

Interested in testing these formulas? Contact us to request full formulation details, use-level guidance, and supporting documentation.