What it is
Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that, when compressed, can act as a propellant to expel product from a pressurized container. In sunscreens it appears in aerosol or spray formats where it provides the pressure that dispenses the product. It is chemically inert toward most cosmetic ingredients and contributes no color or scent.
Safety & warnings
As used in cosmetic propellant applications it is considered safe; it is inert on the skin. As with any pressurized spray, products should be used with adequate ventilation and avoid inhalation of the mist.
Origin & sourcing
It is an abundant, naturally occurring atmospheric gas that is collected and purified for industrial and cosmetic use.
Questions everyone asks
Why is carbon dioxide in a sunscreen?
It is used as a propellant in pressurized spray or aerosol sunscreens, providing the pressure needed to dispense the product from the can.
Does carbon dioxide affect sun protection?
No, it does not contribute to UV protection; it only serves to deliver the product, while the UV filters provide the sun protection.