In the ever-evolving world of skincare, the surge in popularity of a particular organic sunscreen brand has caught the attention of beauty enthusiasts worldwide. Revered for its lightweight and smooth texture, this sunscreen has sparked a wave of manufacturing requests for similarly lightweight formulations, especially through platforms like MAYK. However, industry insiders caution that creating a lightweight sunscreen with a robust SPF 50 level is no easy feat. In this expert analysis, we will explore the intricacies of how Korean sunscreens, known for their global success, are manufactured and released with an impressive SPF 50 rating.

Understanding the Manufacturing Process of Sunscreens

The process of bringing a lightweight SPF 50 sunscreen to the market involves careful steps and considerations. Here is a detailed breakdown of the key stages:

1. Product Selection

The journey begins with the selection of the target product. Brands identify the specific qualities and features they desire in a sunscreen formulation, focusing on factors like lightweight texture and high SPF.

2. Verification and Sample Requests

Brands collaborate with manufacturers and request samples of sunscreens similar to the target product. This step involves selecting a manufacturer known for their expertise in creating certified sun protection formulations.

3. Formulation Modification

The chosen manufacturer modifies an existing formulation that has already been certified for sun protection by the Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Samples are then provided, with or without additional SPF testing. This assumes a similar SPF rating based on the use of certified formulations and identical UV filter ingredients.

4. OEM/ODM Brand Release

For brands opting for Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) or Original Design Manufacturing (ODM), there is no legal obligation in Korea to conduct separate SPF certification tests for the final product. Given the substantial cost of SPF testing (approximately $10,000), many brands choose to forgo this step.

Challenges and Lessons Learned from Sunscreen Formulation

While the streamlined system described above reduces time and administrative costs, it comes with its own set of challenges. The 2020 Korean sunscreen SPF incident, where exported sunscreens with an SPF 50 rating had an actual SPF of less than 20 in Europe, highlighted the potential pitfalls of relying solely on certified formulations.

Key Recommendations for Sunscreen Production

1. Partner with Reputable Manufacturers

Collaborate with well-established manufacturers known for their adherence to safety and quality standards. This is a crucial step in ensuring the reliability of the SPF rating.

2. FDA-Certified Mother Prescription

Use the same 100% FDA-certified mother prescription as much as possible. This consistency provides a reliable foundation for the formulation.

3. Conduct SPF Certification Tests

To guarantee the SPF rating of the final product, especially if there are any variations from the certified formulation, it is recommended to conduct SPF certification tests before production.

Moving Forward with Sunscreens

The popularity of Korean SPF 50 lightweight sunscreens signifies a global demand for effective and aesthetically pleasing sun protection. However, navigating the complexities of sunscreen manufacturing requires a delicate balance of formulation expertise, regulatory awareness, and commitment to quality assurance. By heeding the recommendations and lessons learned from the Korean sunscreen SPF incident, brands can contribute to a safer and more transparent landscape in the sunscreen industry.

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