Below is every ingredient in Hyphen Sun Milk 100Percent Mineral Sunscreen Spf 50 Pa explained, its standout actives, and the side effects reported in research for those actives — analysed for Indian skin.
Flags derived from the ingredient list using dermatology reference data (fungal-acne substrate, comedogenicity, EU allergens). General guidance, not a diagnosis.
Answers are derived from the printed ingredient list and dermatology reference data — general guidance, not a diagnosis or a therapeutic claim.
Zinc oxide is a mineral (inorganic) UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation by scattering and absorbing light. It also has mild astringent and soothing properties and is used in sunscreens, diaper creams, and barrier preparations.
Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%.
Titanium dioxide is an inorganic mineral compound used primarily as a physical (mineral) sunscreen agent that reflects and scatters UV radiation, and also serves as a white pigment and opacifier in cosmetic formulations. It is broadly photostable and considered gentle, making it common in products for sensitive and pediatric skin.
Salix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract is a botanical source of salicin, which can be converted to salicylic acid, offering mild exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. It is commonly used in formulations targeting acne-prone, oily, or congested skin as a gentler alternative to synthetic salicylic acid.
Melia Azadirachta (neem) Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, often used in skincare for soothing and conditioning effects. It contains bioactive compounds such as nimbidin and flavonoids.
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract, derived from the tea tree plant, is valued for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used in formulations targeting acne and minor skin irritations. Its activity is largely attributed to terpinen-4-ol and related terpene compounds.
Aggregated from the active ingredients in this product.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Skin dryness or barrier disruption with excessive contact | Uncommon | Frequent or prolonged exposure to water, especially hot or hard water, can disrupt the skin barrier and contribute to transepidermal water loss. |
| Irritation from impurities or hard water minerals | Rare | Reactions are attributed to contaminants, chlorine, or mineral content rather than water itself. |
| White cast / cosmetic residue on skin | Common | Non-micronized particles can leave a visible white film, especially on darker skin tones. |
| Dryness or mild skin tightness | Uncommon | Due to its astringent nature, particularly in high concentrations. |
| Clogged pores / acne aggravation | Uncommon | More often attributed to occlusive base ingredients than to zinc oxide itself. |
| Contact irritation or stinging | Rare | Generally well tolerated; irritation often relates to other formulation components. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Very rare | True allergy to zinc oxide is uncommon; reactions usually involve other excipients or fragrances. |
| Skin irritation | Rare | Generally well tolerated; mild irritation possible in sensitive individuals. |
| Comedogenicity / breakouts | Uncommon | Low comedogenic potential but may contribute to clogged pores in acne-prone skin. |
| Contact urticaria | Very rare | Isolated reports of hive-like reactions tied to benzoate moiety. |
| Mild skin irritation | Uncommon | Possible with high concentrations or sensitive/compromised skin. |
| Comedogenicity/pore congestion | Rare | Low comedogenic potential reported in most assessments. |
| Contact allergy/sensitization | Very rare | Allergic contact reactions are uncommon; the ingredient is generally regarded as low-risk. |
| Acneiform breakouts | Rare | As a fatty acid derivative, may theoretically contribute to comedogenicity in acne-prone skin, though data are limited. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
| Ingredient | What it does |
|---|---|
| Water Solvent/vehicle | Water is the most common base ingredient in cosmetic formulations, serving as a solvent that dissolves other ingredients and forms the bulk of emulsions and aqueous solutions. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating. |
| Zinc Oxide Key active UV filter / skin protectant | Zinc oxide is a mineral (inorganic) UV filter that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB radiation by scattering and absorbing light. It also has mild astringent and soothing properties and is used in sunscreens, diaper creams, and barrier preparations. |
| C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Emollient / texture enhancer | C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate is a lightweight ester emollient widely used in skincare and cosmetics to improve spreadability, provide a smooth non-greasy skin feel, and act as a solvent and mild antimicrobial booster. It is considered a base/formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Isostearic Acid Emollient/emulsifier | Isostearic acid is a branched-chain fatty acid used in cosmetic formulations as an emollient, co-emulsifier, and dispersing agent that improves spreadability and texture. It is valued for its oxidative stability and liquid consistency compared to straight-chain stearic acid. |
| Polyhydroxystearic Acid Dispersant/emulsifier | Polyhydroxystearic acid is a fatty acid derivative used in cosmetic formulations primarily as a dispersing agent and emulsifier, helping to evenly distribute pigments (such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in sunscreens) and stabilize oil-based or water-in-oil systems. It improves texture, spreadability, and uniformity rather than providing a direct biological skin benefit. |
| Cyclopentasiloxane Emollient/silicone | Cyclopentasiloxane is a volatile cyclic silicone widely used in skincare and cosmetics to impart a smooth, silky feel and spreadability before evaporating, leaving no greasy residue. It also serves as a carrier and helps reduce tackiness in formulations. |
| PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone Silicone-based emulsifier/conditioning agent | PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone is a water-dispersible silicone surfactant used to emulsify, stabilize, and impart a smooth, silky feel to skincare and cosmetic formulations. It functions primarily as an emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Isododecane Emollient/solvent | Isododecane is a lightweight, volatile branched-chain hydrocarbon used as a solvent and emollient in cosmetics. It spreads easily and evaporates quickly, improving texture and wear in products like long-lasting makeup, primers, and sunscreens. |
| Glycerin Humectant | Glycerin is a widely used humectant that attracts and retains water in the skin, helping to hydrate the stratum corneum and support barrier function. It is considered safe and well-tolerated across most skin types and concentrations. |
| Niacinamide Key active Cell-communicating / barrier-repair active | Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is a water-soluble active that supports the skin barrier, regulates sebum, brightens hyperpigmentation, and reduces inflammation. It is widely tolerated across skin types and used in concentrations commonly ranging from 2% to 10%. |
| Silica Absorbent/texturizer | Silica is a mineral-derived ingredient (silicon dioxide) used in cosmetics to absorb oil and sebum, improve texture, and act as a bulking, anti-caking, or matting agent. It is generally inert and well tolerated on skin. |
| Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer Silicone elastomer / texture enhancer | Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer is a crosslinked silicone elastomer used in skincare and cosmetics to impart a silky, smooth feel, absorb excess oil, blur the appearance of pores and fine lines, and improve product spreadability. It functions as a formulation/sensory agent rather than a biologically active treatment ingredient. |
| Caprylyl Methicone Emollient / spreading agent | Caprylyl Methicone is a volatile silicone fluid used in cosmetic formulations to provide a light, non-greasy, smooth skin feel and to enhance the spreadability of products. It also acts as a solvent and carrier for other ingredients, particularly in sunscreens and color cosmetics. |
| PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer Silicone emulsifier/conditioning agent | PEG-12 Dimethicone/PPG-20 Crosspolymer is a silicone-based crosspolymer used in cosmetic formulations primarily as an emulsifier, emollient, and skin-conditioning agent. It helps stabilize emulsions and impart a smooth, silky feel to products. |
| Titanium Dioxide Key active UV filter / mineral sunscreen | Titanium dioxide is an inorganic mineral compound used primarily as a physical (mineral) sunscreen agent that reflects and scatters UV radiation, and also serves as a white pigment and opacifier in cosmetic formulations. It is broadly photostable and considered gentle, making it common in products for sensitive and pediatric skin. |
| Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone Emulsifier | Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone is a silicone-based nonionic emulsifier used primarily to stabilize water-in-silicone and water-in-oil emulsions in cosmetic formulations. It helps create stable, lightweight textures in products like foundations, sunscreens, and creams. |
| Talc Absorbent/Anti-caking agent | Talc is a naturally occurring hydrated magnesium silicate used in cosmetics as a bulking, absorbent, and texture-improving ingredient, particularly in powders and color cosmetics. It helps absorb moisture, improve slip, and provide a smooth, matte feel to formulations. |
| Sodium Chloride Thickener / viscosity adjuster | Sodium chloride (table salt) is commonly used in cosmetics as a thickening and viscosity-control agent, particularly in surfactant-based cleansers, and also acts as a mild abrasive in scrubs. It is generally well tolerated and considered a formulation ingredient rather than a treatment active. |
| Salix Alba Bark Extract Key active Natural exfoliant / anti-inflammatory | Salix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract is a botanical source of salicin, which can be converted to salicylic acid, offering mild exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. It is commonly used in formulations targeting acne-prone, oily, or congested skin as a gentler alternative to synthetic salicylic acid. |
| Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract Key active Soothing/antimicrobial botanical extract | Melia Azadirachta (neem) Leaf Extract is a plant-derived ingredient valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, often used in skincare for soothing and conditioning effects. It contains bioactive compounds such as nimbidin and flavonoids. |
| Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract Key active Antimicrobial/anti-inflammatory botanical | Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Extract, derived from the tea tree plant, is valued for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used in formulations targeting acne and minor skin irritations. Its activity is largely attributed to terpinen-4-ol and related terpene compounds. |
| Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing botanical | Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in flavonoids such as baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin, valued in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. It is commonly used to help calm irritation and protect skin against environmental oxidative stress. |
| Centella Asiatica Extract Key active Soothing/antioxidant active | Centella Asiatica Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in triterpenoids (asiaticoside, madecassoside, asiatic and madecassic acids) used to calm inflammation, support wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier. It is also valued for antioxidant and collagen-supporting properties in topical formulations. |
| Bisabolol Key active Soothing/anti-inflammatory agent | Bisabolol is a naturally derived (typically from chamomile) or synthetic terpene alcohol used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and skin-conditioning properties. It is also reported to enhance penetration of other ingredients and offers mild antimicrobial activity. |
| Hamamelis Virginiana Extract Key active Astringent/antioxidant | Hamamelis Virginiana (witch hazel) extract is derived from the leaves, bark, and twigs of the witch hazel plant and is valued for its tannin content, providing astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It is commonly used in toners and after-shave products to tighten skin and reduce minor irritation. |
| Glycine Soja Seed Extract Key active Antioxidant/conditioning | Glycine Soja (soybean) Seed Extract is a soy-derived ingredient rich in isoflavones, proteins, and fatty acids used in skincare for antioxidant, moisturizing, and skin-conditioning effects. It is also studied for brightening and anti-aging benefits attributed to its phytoestrogen and antioxidant content. |
| Houttuynia Cordata Extract Key active Soothing antioxidant | Houttuynia Cordata Extract is a plant-derived ingredient used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is often included to calm sensitive or acne-prone skin and reduce redness. |
| Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract Key active Antioxidant / soothing botanical | Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract is a plant-derived ingredient rich in flavonoids such as baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin, valued in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing properties. It is commonly used to help calm irritation and protect skin against environmental oxidative stress. |
| Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract Key active Soothing/antioxidant botanical extract | Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract is derived from the root of the Rehmannia glutinosa plant and is used in skincare for its purported antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. It contains compounds such as catalpol and iridoid glycosides that may help calm irritated skin. |
| Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract Key active Soothing / anti-inflammatory botanical | Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract is a plant-derived extract rich in berberine and other alkaloids, used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It is commonly included to calm irritation, balance sebum, and support acne-prone or sensitive skin. |
| Lactobacillus/Pear Juice Ferment Filtrate Skin conditioning / fermented humectant | Lactobacillus/Pear Juice Ferment Filtrate is the filtrate produced by fermenting pear juice with Lactobacillus, yielding a mix of organic acids, peptides, and metabolites used as a skin-conditioning and hydrating agent. It is valued for mild humectant, antioxidant, and skin-barrier-supporting properties in cosmetic formulations. |
| Butylene Glycol Humectant / solvent | Butylene glycol is a small diol commonly used in skincare as a humectant, solvent, and viscosity-reducing agent that helps dissolve other ingredients and improve skin feel. It is widely regarded as safe and non-sensitizing for the majority of users at cosmetic concentrations. |
| Glycolic Acid Key active Chemical exfoliant (AHA) | Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane that exfoliates by loosening bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, promoting cell turnover and improving texture, tone, and fine lines. It is one of the smallest AHAs, allowing relatively deep penetration into the skin. |
| PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil Solubilizer/emulsifier | PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is a nonionic surfactant derived from hydrogenated castor oil reacted with ethylene oxide, widely used to solubilize fragrances, oils, and lipophilic actives into water-based cosmetic formulations. It functions as a base/formulation aid rather than a treatment active. |
| Ethylhexylglycerin Preservative booster / skin-conditioning agent | Ethylhexylglycerin is a multifunctional glyceryl ether used in cosmetics primarily as a preservative-enhancing agent and emollient, often paired with phenoxyethanol to broaden antimicrobial efficacy. It also acts as a deodorizing agent and humectant in skincare formulations. |
| Glyceryl Caprylate Emollient / antimicrobial co-preservative | Glyceryl Caprylate is a monoglyceride derived from glycerin and caprylic acid, used in skincare as an emollient, moisturizing agent, and skin-conditioning component with mild antimicrobial properties that support preservation. It is commonly employed to help stabilize formulations and reduce reliance on conventional preservatives. |
| O-Cymen-5-Ol Antimicrobial preservative | O-Cymen-5-ol (also known as biosol or 4-isopropyl-3-methylphenol) is a phenolic antimicrobial agent used in cosmetics as a preservative and to inhibit odor-causing bacteria. It is effective against bacteria and fungi and is often included in deodorants, acne products, and skincare formulations. |
| PEG-10 Dimethicone Silicone-based emulsifier/conditioning agent | PEG-10 Dimethicone is a water-dispersible, PEG-modified silicone used in cosmetics as an emulsifier, surfactant, and skin-conditioning agent that imparts a smooth, silky feel and helps stabilize emulsions. It is considered a formulation/base ingredient rather than a therapeutic active. |
| Magnesium Sulfate Emulsion stabilizer / viscosity-adjusting agent | Magnesium sulfate is an inorganic salt used in cosmetic formulations primarily as an emulsion stabilizer, viscosity controller, and bulking agent, particularly in water-in-oil systems. It is generally considered safe and well tolerated in topical skincare products. |
| Phenoxyethanol Preservative | Phenoxyethanol is a widely used broad-spectrum preservative that protects cosmetic and skincare formulations from bacterial and fungal contamination. It is typically used at concentrations up to 1% and serves as a formulation/base ingredient rather than an active treatment. |
Key active = does the main work. Ingredient explanations are drawn from public databases & literature.
Peer-reviewed papers on the active ingredients in this product, via PubMed.