Hybrid sunscreens – the next generation of UV protection
Sun protection is a key issue in modern skin care. A classic distinction is made between mineral filters such as zinc oxide (ZnO) or titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and organic (chemical) filters, which absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat. Both approaches have their strengths, but also their disadvantages. The trend in recent years has therefore been moving clearly in one direction: hybrid sunscreens.
These innovative formulations combine mineral and organic UV filters in a single product. The combination of different mechanisms of action results in a particularly stable and highly effective sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
Why hybrid sunscreens?
The idea behind these products is simple:
Organic filters absorb UV radiation but can be photo-unstable.
Mineral filters reflect and scatter UV light but tend to whiten and are difficult to incorporate elegantly.
The combination of both systems creates an optimum balance of protection, stability and cosmetic elegance. Studies show that hybrid sunscreens often achieve a higher sun protection factor (SPF) than pure systems. The reason: the optical path of the radiation in the formulation is lengthened and more photons hit the filter molecules.
Advantages of hybrid sunscreens
– Improved effectiveness: the SPF is increased through synergies between absorption and scattering.
– Broad-spectrum protection: UVA and UVB coverage in one system.
– Better photostability: Mineral filters can stabilise sensitive organic filters.
– Attractive skin feel: Modern emollients and emulsifiers enable light, non-greasy textures.
– Flexibility in formulation: Hybrid sunscreens can be developed for different skin types – from sensitive to sporty and active.
Challenges in development
The formulation of hybrid sunscreens is technically demanding.
– Solubility and dispersion: Organic filters such as BEMT or BMDBM must be solubilised, while mineral pigments must be evenly dispersed.
– Stability: Interactions between zinc oxide and certain organic filters can cause agglomeration.
– pH dependence: Water-soluble filters such as PBSA or DPDT are pH-sensitive and require careful formulation adjustment.
Sensory properties: The whitening effect, skin feel and water resistance must be optimised simultaneously.
However, thanks to modern raw material developments, such as new emulsifiers and skin-friendly emollients, these hurdles can be overcome with increasing elegance.
Practical examples of hybrid sunscreens
– Face gel cream with a light oil-in-water emulsion that combines zinc oxide (ZnO) with organic UVA filters – ideal for daily use.
– Sports sunscreen with hybrid systems, reinforced with film-forming polymers for extra water resistance.
– Sensitive skin formulations that rely on zinc oxide but minimise the white effect through organic co-filters.
– A sunscreen serum for the face combines mineral non-nanoparticles with modern organic filters and offers a feather-light skin feel.
Titanium dioxide – why we don’t use it
Although titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has long been a key mineral UV filter, its reputation has changed significantly. Titanium dioxide has been banned in food in the EU since 2022 due to concerns about its safety when ingested and possible genotoxic effects. Our policy is clear: A lipstick is practically a food product, as it inevitably comes into contact with the mouth. That is why we have consistently stopped using titanium dioxide in our sunscreen formulations.
Instead, we use non-critical, modern UV filters with a stable safety rating
– EHT (Ethylhexyl Triazone): highly efficient UVB filter with very high photostability.
– BEMT (Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine): modern broad-spectrum filter that covers UVA and UVB radiation.
-DHHB (Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate): stable UVA filter that can be combined very well.
– TDSA (Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid, Mexoryl SX): water-soluble broad-spectrum filter.
– DPDT (Disodium Phenyl Dibenzimidazole Tetrasulfonate): water-soluble UVA-II filter.
– PBSA (Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid) is a proven, water-soluble UVB filter.
– OS (Ethylhexyl Salicylate): classic UVB filter that stabilises other filters.
– DHBT (Diethylhexyl Butamido Triazone) is an efficient, modern UVB filter with high photostability.
This selection can be used to develop titanium dioxide-free hybrid sunscreens that offer high safety and efficacy and feel pleasant on the skin.
Conclusion on hybrid sunscreens:
Hybrid sunscreens are the future of UV protection because they combine the advantages of both types of filters. They offer broad protection, high stability and sensorially attractive textures. This makes them ideal for meeting the increasing demands for efficacy, skin friendliness and consumer acceptance.
Would you like to add hybrid sunscreens to your product range?
Cosmacon supports you in developing tailor-made formulations with the optimal filter combination.
With Tojo Cosmetics, you also have access to immediately available private label products in the sun protection sector – fast, efficient and ready for market.
Contact us now for innovative sun protection solutions that set trends!