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Oxybenzone

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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.
Custom Q&A

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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