Summer splash: “World’s first” solar-powered SPF powder unveiled, Cosmax debuts transparent sunscreen

30 Jun 2023 --- Into the peak of summer, Australian manufacturer of natural sunscreen actives, Advance ZincTek, has released EcoZinc, a non-nano zinc oxide powder for reef-safe SPF-rated cosmetics and sunscreens. Meanwhile, Korean original design manufacturer Cosmax is introducing Capsule Sun, an emulsifier-free sunscreen formula.

“EcoZinc represents a major evolution for skin care brands and consumers striving to protect their skin and the planet,” says Geoff Acton, managing director at the Australian company.

“Our 100% solar-powered manufacturing process testifies to our resolution to spearhead the industry transition toward safer, sustainable sun protection.”

Notably, Advance ZincTek’s EcoZinc minimizes environmental impact and, importantly, achieves a dramatic reduction in carbon emissions-saving over 1,011 g of CO2 per kilowatt of energy compared to traditional zinc oxide production.

Top-tier sustainability tech
Advance ZincTek uses its state-of-the-art ZinClear XP architecture to engineer EcoZinc.

The product’s absorption range includes UVA, UVB & UVC rays. It is marketed as “ensuring unmatched sustainability and uniform particle distribution.”

“Offering 23.08% more absorbance at a wavelength of 290 nm than some competitors, EcoZinc merges top-tier skin protection and sustainability,” shares the company.EcoZinc minimizes the impact on marine life and is reef-friendly (Image Credit: Advance ZincTek).

EcoZinc is produced by 100% solar power as the company actively promotes adopting sustainable practices in the industry.

Safe for coral reefs
Advance ZincTek manufactures zinc oxides for reef-safe cosmetics that meet the regulations of regions such as Hawaii, Mexico and Thailand. EcoZinc “significantly minimizes the impact on marine life.”

“We’re thrilled to be part of the sustainable innovation that EcoZinc brings. Numerous sunscreen brands, including many renowned Australian labels, typically rely on chemical UV filters; however, none have been deemed safe and effective by the US FDA,” says Joseph Mizikovsky, product lead for Reef Safe, a new brand leveraging EcoZinc in its formulations.

“With EcoZinc, we aim to establish a new standard, prioritizing safety and sustainability to minimize environmental impact, especially in sensitive areas like marine parks and reefs. Zinc oxide remains the only broad spectrum UV filter approved as safe and effective by the FDA.”

Diverse consumer demands
In another sun care innovation release this month, Cosmax leveraged its patent technology Clear Fence to create a white-cast-free formulation with high spreadability.

Cosmax created Capsule Sun through its technology that evenly disperses large particle oil ingredients into an aqueous phase without emulsifiers. The product takes on a visible capsule form containing sunscreen ingredients “to ensure transparency.”

“Cosmax has developed the Capsule Sun to meet the growing demand for transparent sunscreens,” says Lee Byung Ju, CEO at the Korean company.

“As the sun care sector is expected to grow in the global beauty market, Cosmax will continuously introduce new sun care formulations in line with the evolving trends and consumer preferences.”

Capsule Sun emulates the effect of sunscreen by forming an even protective barrier on the skin while creating a “natural luminosity” with moisturizing ingredients. 

Cosmax expands cosmetic sun care lineup
With the new formulation targeting daily wear for applying after makeup, Cosmax plans to “strengthen a formulation line-up of sunscreens in the global cosmetics market.”EU and US consumers prefer sun products that reduce UV damage, and Asians prefer irritation-free products with good spreadability (Image Credit: Cosmax).

“To meet the evolving needs, Cosmax continuously expands its sun care products line-up by introducing new formulations such as sticks, sprays, cushions, serums and more,” shares the company.

 “In the first quarter of 2023, Cosmax’s sales of sunscreen products grew by approximately 130% compared to the same period last year as the global market moved out of the COVID-19 pandemic phase.”

On Wednesday, Cosmax completed the trademark registration for the Clear Fence proprietary technology, including the patent for “cosmetic compositions including capsules.” 

Global market preferences
The global demand for sun care products is growing as it is becoming part of the skin care routine, according to Cosmax. But regional differences in consumer demands for specific functional and ergonomic properties have been observed.

Consumers in the EU and US prefer functional products that reduce damage from intense UV rays, for instance. Meanwhile, Asians prefer formulations that are less irritating and have good spreadability.

Moreover, as sunscreen is becoming diversified, consumers also consider multifunctional factors such as moisturizing effect, spreadability and transparency when choosing sun care products. 

Delving further into this topic, Personal Care Insights recently held a webinar on multifunctional cosmetics with MyMicrobiome and Conagen.

By Venya Patel