Formulation and toxicology

Squalane, microplastics, fragrance allergens, preservation, UV filters.

Bemotrizinol after the sun has had its say

Photostable broadband filters hold a spectrum once the lamp has done its work. Reef-safe remains a slogan. SPF is a dose of 2 milligrams per square centimetre.

Dr. Claire Moreau · 2026-11-01

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Formulation and toxicology

Pentylene glycol is a hurdle. The challenge test is the proof.

Water-bearing emulsions still need a system after phenoxyethanol leaves the INCI. Glycols and organic acids hold a count only inside a pH window, and only when ISO 11930 says so.

Julian Vance · 2026-10-31

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Formulation and toxicology

The annex grew. The blotter did not get quieter.

Twenty-six fragrance allergens were the old core. The extended EU list, IFRA categories and oxidised terpenes now decide what a cabin may call fragrance-free.

Julian Vance · 2026-10-30

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Formulation and toxicology

Entry 78, and the glitter still sitting by the lamp

The REACH restriction on synthetic polymer microparticles is already in force. Rinse-off, leave-on and makeup run on different clocks, and the texture changes when the particle leaves.

Lin Chen · 2026-10-29

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Formulation and toxicology

Hemisqualane from the tank: silk, sugar, and a shorter chain

Yeast on cane sugar can deliver a hydrocarbon without a shark liver. Buyers still have to separate C15 from C30, then read peroxide value and odour on skin.

Julian Vance · 2026-10-28

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