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| Catalog Number | CI-SC-0552 |
| Product Name | Oxybenzone |
| CAS | 131-57-7 |
| Structure |  |
| Synonyms | (2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)phenyl-methanon;(2-Hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)phenylmethanone;(2-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)phenyl-Methanone;2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzophenon;4-Methoxy-2-hydroxybenzophenone butyric acid;Advastab 45;advastab45;Anuvex |
| Description | Solid oil soluble UVA/UVB sunscreen. Aromatic ketone (synonyms: 2-hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzophenone, benzophenone-3) |
| Molecular Weight | 228.24 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C14H12O3 |
| Canonical SMILES | O=C(C1=CC=C(OC)C=C1O)C2=CC=CC=C2 |
| Boiling Point | 150-160°C5mm Hg(lit.) |
| Melting Point | 62-64°C(lit.) |
| Flash Point | 216°C |
| Purity | 99.91% |
| Density | 1,3 g/mL |
| Solubility | Water-insoluble, soluble in alcohol & oil |
| Appearance | Pale yellow crystalline powder, weak rose-like odor |
| Application | Sun care products (incl. baby sun care), color cosmetics with sun protection, various cosmetics & fragrances for product protection. |
| Storage | Store light-protected at a cool and dry place |
| Composition | Benzophenone-3 |
| Features And Benefits | UVA and UVB filter (primarily UVB but also UVA)Enhances activity of other sunscreens (e.g. homosalate, octyl salicylate, OM-cinnamate, octinoxate)Protects polymers and organic substances in cosmetic productsStabilizes complex formulations and color cosmetics |
| GMO | GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components) |
| HS Code | 2914501000 |
| INCI | Benzophenone-3 |
| Manufacture | Oxybenzone is produced synthetically by the reaction of benzoyl chloride with 3-hydroxyanisole. The product is then recrystallized from water/methanol and dried. |
| Preservation | Preservative-free |
| Purity Grade | No purity grade applicable |
| Raw Material Source | Benzoyl chloride and 3-hydroxyanisole |
| Uses | Incorporate into oil phase. Allowed use levels in the USA: up to 6% alone and 2-6% when used in combination with other sunscreen actives. Allowed levels in other countries: EU 10%, Japan 5%. For external use only. |
Oxybenzone, also known as Benzophenone-3, is a vital component in sunscreens and sun protection products, such as creams, lotions, and bases. It effectively absorbs UV-B rays and some of the shorter UV-A II wavelengths (320-340 nm) and is easily soluble in common cosmetic oils. As an oil-soluble sunscreen agent, Oxybenzone is incorporated into sun care formulations to serve as a broad-spectrum UV filter, offering protection against premature skin aging and shielding lips from harmful radiation. Additionally, it is employed in hair care products, including gels, shampoos, lotions, mousses, and sprays, to prevent hair brittleness and protect bleached hair from UV damage. Moreover, Oxybenzone enhances the stability of other ingredients, helping prevent color fading in products with transparent packaging, depending on the colorant type and the medium used. It also stabilizes fragrance oils and prevents oxidation of active compounds. Extensive toxicological assessments have confirmed its safety in cosmetic applications, with no toxicological risks identified at recommended concentrations when used as directed.
What is the maximum approved concentration of oxybenzone in sunscreens in the United States and Canada?
The maximum approved concentration of oxybenzone in sunscreens in the United States and Canada is up to 6%.
Which countries allow concentrations of oxybenzone up to 10% in sunscreens?
Australia, New Zealand, European Union countries, and most countries in Asia allow concentrations of oxybenzone up to 10% in sunscreens.
Does oxybenzone have estrogenic effects?
Yes, oxybenzone has weak estrogenic properties, but the activity is considered weak and some studies have shown no such effect.
How does the hormonal change measured from oxybenzone application compare to normal hormonal activity in the body?
The hormonal change measured from oxybenzone application is one million-fold less than normal hormonal activity in the body.
Has oxybenzone been shown to cause birth defects?
No, oxybenzone has never been shown to cause any type of birth defect.
What is the potential issue with a metabolite of oxybenzone called 4-hydroxy-benzophenone?
Some studies have shown that 4-hydroxy-benzophenone, a metabolite of oxybenzone, may be the issue instead of oxybenzone itself. This metabolite comes from benzophenone, a chemical used in various products.
Is there conclusive evidence that oxybenzone damages coral reefs in a marine environment?
No, there isn't conclusive causation in a marine environment for oxybenzone's negative impact on coral reefs, especially considering other factors such as climate change and ocean acidification.
Does research support the claim that oxybenzone is a skin irritant?
Research examining widespread use of sunscreens containing oxybenzone hasn't shown it to be a skin irritant, but sensitized or allergic reactions are possible with synthetic UV filters.
What is the ongoing safety testing being conducted on oxybenzone?
Oxybenzone is currently undergoing further safety testing, along with other UV filters, under the purview of the United States Food and Drug Administration to understand its systemic absorption, metabolism, and elimination when small amounts enter the body via topical use.
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