Sunlight, Skin & Mineral Formulation Excellence

What consumers expect from modern sun protection

With growing awareness of UV-related risks, consumers are no longer satisfied with basic protection. They are seeking high-performance sun care that is not only effective but also natural, pleasant to apply, and respectful of both skin and the environment. In this context, mineral filters are making a strong comeback, driven by their natural origin, safety profile, and broad-spectrum protection.

The challenges of today’s sunscreen formulations

It is now well established that unprotected exposure to UV rays can cause a range of harmful effects, from sunburn to more serious pathologies like skin cancer.

Yet in practice, sun protection remains inconsistently used. Most consumers only apply sunscreen during the summer months, and often incorrectly. An SPF50 product, for instance, only achieves its promised protection when applied at 2 mg/cm² every two hours, and after swimming.

A study in France revealed that 72% of holidaymakers experience sunburn, primarily due to insufficient or irregular sunscreen use.

This underscores a major issue: low user acceptance of current formulas, often tied to:

• Lack of transparency, which discourages adequate application.

• Unpleasant textures, often greasy or sticky.

• Ingredient concerns, including suspected endocrine disruptors, nanoparticles, or UV filters not recognized as GRASE (Generally Recognized As Safe and Effective).

The rise of mineral filters in sun care

Driven by a demand for safer and more natural products, mineral UV filters are gaining traction. Under the influence of the Asian beauty market, formulations featuring zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are becoming more prevalent, aligning with consumer expectations for broad-spectrum, clean-label sun protection.

However, incorporating mineral filters into high-performance cosmetic formulations presents significant challenges. Ensuring proper dispersion, stability, transparency and pleasant skin feel is no easy task, and these are critical factors for consumer acceptance and product success.

G-Block™ : The science behind high-performance mineral sun care

In response to these formulation challenges, AppleChem— part of Solabia Group— has developed G-Block™, a range of 100% natural, ready-to-use mineral dispersions. Engineered to meet the highest standards of efficacy, sensory quality, and regulatory compliance, G-Block™ is redefining what mineral-based sun protection can achieve.

A Unique dispersion technology

Unlike conventional dispersions, G-Block™ relies on a proprietary process that guarantees:

• Controlled particle size and distribution for optimal homogeneity in formulation.

• Proven stability, with no degradation after 12 weeks of accelerated testing at 50 °C.

• Exceptional transparency, even at high concentrations, significantly reducing white cast.

• Enhanced sensoriality, with specific grades designed to minimize the greasy, heavy feel typically associated with mineral filters.

Formulating with G-Block™ means choosing a new generation of sun protection that combines science, sensory appeal, and environmental responsibility.