Development of a Daily-Use Sunscreen Soap

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective was to develop a bar soap (glycerin) with the active sunscreen ingredient octisalate (octyl salicylate). The sunscreen could be used on a daily basis and provide an SPF of at least 15. Methods/Materials I surveyed 100 randomly selected individuals to determine if there was a need/desire for this product. I conducted research on the different types of skin cancer and methods of reducing the risk of it. My research led me to select octisalate, a waterproof UVB agent, and glycerin as the base for the bar soap. I created three different concentrations of the active ingredient: 0% (Control), 5%, and 10%. I used a chemical test to determine the effectiveness of the bar soaps compared to known SPFs (4, 15, and 30). I have conducted multiple tests to confirm the results. I created a UV light source to provide a constant level of UV radiation. The solutions I prepared consisted of benzophenone, isopropanol, glacial acetic acid, and mineral oil. A precipitate formed at the bottom of the test tube. The more precipitate, the less effective the product was at absorbing UV rays. Results The test tube with the 5% concentration of the active ingredient (applied to its exterior) produced the same amount of precipitate (0.8 grams) as the test tube with SPF 15 sunscreen did. Therefore, the 5% concentration of the active ingredient had an approximate SPF of 15. Concentrations exceeding this amount would not completely incorporate into the glycerin. Conclusions/Discussion My conclusion is that regular use of sunscreen soap with an SPF of 15 would significantly decrease the risk of skin cancer. A study indicated that regular use of sunscreen up to age 18 could decrease the risk of contracting skin cancer by 78%. The chemistry of this experiment involves a redox reaction. Benzophenone is reduced to yield benzopicanol (precipitate) and isopropanol is oxidized to form acetone. The stoichiometry of this reaction is 2 molecules of benzophenone to 1 molecule of benzopicanol.

Competition history

• CSEF 2004 Chemistry · Entry S0501

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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