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ZinClear® Dispersions vs Powder: Which Format Is Right for Your Formulation?
Updated: Aug 3
Direct Answer
The choice between ZinClear® XP powder and ZinClear® dispersions is determined by manufacturing capability, not performance. Both formats use non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide and deliver equivalent broad-spectrum UV protection. Powder suits facilities with high-shear dispersion capability that require full control over the formulation system. Dispersions suit facilities where zinc oxide is incorporated using standard mixing equipment, or where processing consistency and scale-up efficiency are the priority.
The Role of Manufacturing Setup
Uniform dispersion of zinc oxide requires sufficient mixing energy. With high-shear equipment, powder can be broken down and distributed evenly through the oil phase, giving the formulator complete control over carrier selection, viscosity, and system architecture. Without it, achieving consistent particle distribution becomes a challenge that affects texture, UV performance, and batch reproducibility.
Dispersions address this directly. Because the zinc oxide is pre-dispersed in a carrier oil at the manufacturing stage, it incorporates into the oil phase with standard mixing equipment. The dispersion work has already been done, which reduces processing variables and supports consistent results across production batches.
Key considerations when choosing between formats:
• available mixing equipment and shear capability
• in-house dispersion expertise
• formulation stage: development versus commercial scale-up
• required level of control over oil phase and carrier design
• batch-to-batch consistency requirements
Non-Nano and Uncoated
All ZinClear® powder is non-nano and uncoated. The uncoated surface interacts directly with the formulation system, supporting clean-label, natural, and organic certified positioning. Some dispersion formats incorporate additional surface additives during processing to suit specific formulation needs
Non-nano particles remain on the surface of the skin rather than penetrating it, a property widely used to support reef-safe and sensitive-skin formulation claims
ZinClear® XP - Powder
ZinClear® XP is a pharmaceutical-grade, non-nano zinc oxide powder with a mean particle size of 200-700 nm and purity of 98.0% ZnO, manufactured under TGA-licensed GMP conditions in Australia. It is ECOCERT and COSMOS approved.
Powder is the right choice for formulators who want direct control over the dispersion process and oil phase design. Effective incorporation requires high-shear mixing and a suitable dispersant. For mineral-only sunscreen formulations, typical ZnO loading is 15-25% for SPF 30+. When formulated at appropriate concentrations, ZinClear® XP as the sole active can support formulations that meet EU and Australian broad-spectrum requirements
The uncoated surface is also well suited to tinted formulations, blending cleanly with iron oxides for consistent colour and tone.
ZinClear® Dispersions
ZinClear® dispersions supply the same non-nano, uncoated zinc oxide pre-dispersed in a carrier oil at a defined active loading. The dispersion is added directly to the oil phase without specialist equipment or additional dispersants, simplifying the processing step and supporting consistent batch-to-batch results. SPF contribution per unit of ZnO is equivalent to the powder format.
Available carriers include C12-15 alkyl benzoate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut oil, jojoba oil, medium-chain triglyceride oil and sunflower oil. Technical documentation is available for perusal in our Knowledge Database.
