Zinc Oxide Profile

Grade- USP-2
Origin- USA
Shelf life- Indefinite
Grade- USP and FDA for food and cosmetic purposes

Notes- High quality Zinc Oxide produced to meet the requirements of the Unites States Pharmacopoeia, FDA and the Toilet Goods Association. Because of its very fine texture; which will bind to moisture, it is recommended that storage remain dry.

Specifications
Color- White
Odor- None
Particle Size- 0.46/US #325 Mesh
Zinc Assay- 99.8%

Zinc Oxide Use and Formulation
Zinc oxide is a natural source pigmented mineral, quarry mined and further refined to a fluffy white powder. It is commonly found in cosmetics as a whitening agent and it is also found within sunscreens because of its impressive capability to block UV light. Zinc Oxide has an enormous refractive index (ability to bend light) and comes in right under the refractive capabilities of diamonds! This is why it is the first choice for powerful sunscreens. Below are the 2 main uses for Zinc Oxide….

1. Cosmetic Use
Zinc Oxide is one of the most powerful whitening pigments found today. It adds a bright white color to lotions, creams, and sunscreens. When using Zinc be sure not to add NO MORE then 25% to the total mixture/recipe. Adding to much will cause a spotty appearance to your cosmetics and may actually cause more harm then good. It should also be noted that if your cosmetics contain too much it will leave a very white, opaque appearance on the skin when applied, this is especially problematic for sunscreens. For best results we recommend 1-2 tablespoons for a 1-gallon batch and 2-3 tablespoons for a 2-5 gallon batch.

2. Sunscreen Use
Unfortunately we are not able to help our customers formulate an exact percentage of Zinc to be used within their sunscreen recipes to create a particular SPF. Creating SPF values is an exact and precise science and we recommend its use through your own trial and error or through the administration of laboratory assistance.

Source: http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/zinc_oxide.html