If you’ve ever tried to develop a high SPF spray, you know how challenging this can be. It is difficult to get at the same time low viscosity and stability. To achieve the last two, we need to compromise on skin feel. The outcome is that these formulas often leave behind a sticky, heavy film that feels nothing like skincare. For consumers, it’s one of the main reasons spray sunscreens fail to deliver the pleasant, wearable feel they expect.
Why can’t an SPF spray behave like skincare?
We asked ourselves the same question: why can’t an SPF spray behave like skincare? Why should stability come at the expense of sprayability? Why does lightness mean stickiness?
The truth is: high SPF spray sunscreens are one of the hardest product formats to get right. They contain huge amounts of oils and UV filters. These make the formula greasy, sticky and difficult to stabilize. To achieve stability, we need to compromise on the skin feel which leads to a tacky residue. To fix it we often add alcohol which will help to create the lightness. It looked like an impossible compromise, until INUTEC® SL1 changed the equation.
Derived from chicory root inulin, grafted with a lauryl chain, INUTEC® SL1 has a unique amphiphilic structure that behaves differently at the oil–water interface. Instead of thickening the system, it wraps each oil droplet in a hydrated protective layer. This steric barrier keeps the emulsion stable, even in the presence of salts, preservatives, or high UV filter loads. At the same time, viscosity stays low enough for smooth, even atomization through a spray pump. No separation. No clogging. No glue-like feel.
And the bonus? Sensory performance. By creating smaller, more uniform droplets, INUTEC® SL1 improves spreadability, reduces greasiness, and removes the soaping effect that often appears during application. In panel testing, sprays with INUTEC® SL1 were consistently described as lighter, softer, and more hydrating, closer to a skincare mist than a conventional sunscreen.
Safe, biodegradable, and plant-based, INUTEC® SL1 is fully compatible with a wide range of oils, UV filters, and preservative systems.
So, the answer to our question turned out to be simple: high SPF sprays don’t have to feel sticky or difficult to stabilize. They just need the right emulsifier. We’ve proven that it’s possible to create sunscreens that are stable in the bottle, sprayable on the skin, and sensorially beautiful to wear.
Discover how INUTEC® SLI can elevate your next SPF formulation.
Our technical sales team is ready to support you with:
- Comprehensive product specifications
- Expert formulation guidance and best practices
- Sample arrangements
Let’s create skincare that truly delivers. Get in touch with us today.