The Influence of Complementary Processing Methods to Emulsification on the Sunscreen Emulsion Properties

Author(s)

Santos, Yasmin R. ; Andreo-Filho, Newton ; Lopes, Patricia S. ; Araujo, Daniele R. ; Sepulveda, Anderson F. ; Sales, Caroline C. ; Baby, Andre R. ; Duque, Marcelo D. ; Leite-Silva, Vania R.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PROCESSES; v. 13, n. 2, p. 21-pg., 2025-02-01.

Abstract

Different processing conditions to produce emulsions can modify the dispersion of ingredients, visual aspect, and viscosity, influencing the final product's effectiveness. In this study, a primary sunscreen emulsion was produced by the conventional stirring process and subsequently subjected separately to complementary processing methods. A Box-Behnken 2(3) factorial design was applied to each complementary processing method: the High-Shear Method (CP-HS) and the High-Pressure Homogenization Method (CP-HPH). The present study aimed to investigate the influence of these complementary processes on particle size distribution (PSD), Zeta potential, pH, rheological properties, in vitro SPF, and photostability. In the CP-HS factorial design, the factors explored at three levels were stirring speed and stirring time, while in the CP-HPH design, the factors varied at three levels of pressure and the number of cycles through the high-pressure homogenizer. Results indicated that both complementary processing methods significantly influenced (p < 0.05) the physicochemical characteristics of the primary sunscreen emulsion, which was applied as the starting point. In CP-HS, the sample subjected to 15,000 rpm for 15 min exhibited the highest in vitro SPF (p < 0.05), with an average value of 42 at T0, while the primary sunscreen emulsion had an SPF of 30. In CP-HPH, a more pronounced reduction and uniformity in PSD among the studied methods were observed (p < 0.05), and the range of data was 0.20-0.34 mu m. These results emphasize how different processing methods can influence the final characteristics of an emulsion and where suitable choices can significantly benefit the product. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 08/57800-0 - Broad-spectrum sunscreens: conceptual and practical development of bioactive sunscreens
• Grantee: André Rolim Baby
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/04435-9 - Gelatin particle systems containing flavonoid: development, characterization and application in sunscreen formulations
• Grantee: André Rolim Baby
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants