SPF Boosters in Sunscreen – Synthetic vs Bio-Based

SPF boosters are ingredients added to sunscreen formulations to enhance their sun protection factor (SPF) without increasing the concentration of active UV filters. These boosters can include polymers, emulsifiers, antioxidants, and other agents that improve the sunscreen’s ability to block UV rays. 

The concept of SPF boosters emerged from the need to improve sunscreen efficacy without increasing potential side effects or making the product too greasy. SPF Boosters are important in sun care products for several reasons. Firstly, they enhance the effectiveness of UV filters, providing higher SPF values and better protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Secondly, manufacturers can achieve high SPF levels with lower concentrations of UV Filters, reducing potential skin irritation and allergic reactions. Additionally, lighter and more cosmetically appealing sun care products can be created with SPF Boosters, improving user compliance. 

Synthetic vs Bio-Based

Most SPF boosters are not purely natural. For example, some common SPF Boosters include Ethylhexyl Methoxycrylene. This stabilizes UV filters and enhances SPF. Another example is Polysilicone-15, known for its high SPF efficacy and water resistance. However, there are issues associated with popular SPF Boosters. Some synthetic boosters can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Additionally, synthetic boosters may not biodegrade easily. Consequently, this leads to long-term pollution and potential harm to wildlife. Moreover, some synthetic boosters are based on petrochemical sources, raising further environmental and sustainability concerns. 

Current trends favour SPF boosters from natural sources such as grape seed extract, jasmine, hibiscus, desert rose, propolis, aloe vera, yellow milfoil, and vetty fruit. However, the production of bio-based SPF boosters often requires extensive cultivation and energy-intensive extraction methods. Thus, adversely affecting sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

LignoGuard® – Colloidal Lignin Particles as a Sustainable Alternative 

Lignin is a structural component of plants and algae, providing UV protection, antioxidant benefits, disease protection, and structural integrity. Traditionally, treated as low-value side stream, lignin is now being repurposed by new generation biorefineries for functional use. 

Lignovations’ patented Colloidal Technology makes the natural protective properties of lignin accessible for cosmetic products: boosting SPF, providing antioxidant protection, and improving emulsion stability.  For instance, ormulations with 2-3% CLPs have shown SPF boosts up to 50% or 22 SPF points in in-vivo testing.  
 
How does it work? LignoGuard® can boost UV protection in multiple ways:  

• Reflecting and Scattering UV Light: CLPs physically reflect UV radiation, reducing its penetration into the skin.  

• Absorbing UV Radiation: Due to its chemical structure Lignin absorbs UV light, converting it into thermal energy/heat energy  

• Stabilizing Emulsion Systems: CLPs are able to form Pickering emulsions and, therefore help maintain the stability of sunscreen formulations, ensuring even distribution of active ingredients.  

In addition, LignoGuard works as a strong natural antioxidant, which, combined with SPF protection is a great strategy for reducing skin aging.  

If you are working on a sunscreen formulation, and would like to test Colloidal Lignin Particles, let us know and request a sample!