Film former has unexpected SPF boosting effects

Bayer Material Science has discovered unexpected SPF boosting effects for an ingredient originally launched as a film former for color cosmetics.

Baycusan C 1000 can increase the SPF of a formulation from 30 to 50 if used in conjunction with the organic UV filter, octocrylene, the company claims.

CosmeticsDesign.com USA met with Dr Sophie Viala, business development manager for cosmetics raw materials at the company, who explained that this SPF boosting effect could benefit formulators in a number of ways.

Primarily, using lower concentrations of UV filters can cut costs but it can also improve the feel of the formulation, making it less greasy and tacky, she explained.

In addition, Viala said the ingredient can help to improve the water resistance of the formulation.