Mineral sunscreens are in demand, yet formulating them well is a challenge. High filter levels, visible white cast and uneven application are familiar issues for anyone working with zinc oxide.
At Caffe Inc., we wanted to answer a simple question:
Can a small amount of coffee oil help a mineral sunscreen perform better?
An independent in vitro screening compared a mineral SPF50 formulation with and without 3% EspressOil®, our upcycled coffee oil.
The lab used its Helio2™ method, developed specifically for products with mineral filters. Each sample was measured 16 times for SPF, UVA protection factor (UVA-PF) and critical wavelength.
Does Coffee Oil Boost SPF?
The short answer is: yes, in our first screening.
Mineral SPF50 | Mineral SPF50 + 3% EspressOil® | |
In vitro SPF | 50.8 | 56.1 (+10.4%) |
UVA-PF | 21.4 | 22.8 |
Critical wavelength | 372 nm | 372 nm |
Many botanical actives need high inclusion levels to make a difference. EspressOil® delivered a measurable SPF increase at just 3%, which makes it a practical option for commercial formulations.
Why Might Coffee Oil Boost SPF?
Zinc oxide particles tend to cluster together, which can lead to uneven distribution on the skin. Coffee oil may help wet and disperse these particles more evenly, supporting a more uniform protective film.
Coffee oil also naturally contains UV-absorbing compounds, which may add a complementary effect.
These are promising hypotheses, and we’re continuing to investigate them in further testing.
What Does This Mean for Formulators?
A smarter SPF, not simply more SPF.
If coffee oil helps mineral filters work more efficiently, it opens up new possibilities:
• Reaching SPF targets with lower total filter levels
• More room in the formula for other functional ingredients
• A lighter feel, with easier spreading, a more even film and less visible white cast
This makes EspressOil® relevant for mineral and natural sunscreens, as well as sun care formulations where elegant sensory and an upcycled origin go hand in hand.
More Than an SPF Booster
EspressOil® also has independent in vivo data behind it. In a separate placebo-controlled study, a day cream with 3% EspressOil® reduced wrinkle depth by 16.0% and improved skin roughness by 16.7% after 28 days.
For formulators, this means SPF-boosting potential and demonstrated anti-aging benefits in one upcycled ingredient.
If you’re developing mineral or natural sun care, we’d be happy to share the full test results and explore how EspressOil® could fit into your next formulation.
Get in touch at hello@caffeinc.nl.
In vitro screening by Helioscience, July 2026. Results measured before irradiation. Further testing ongoing.