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In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the potential harm that certain sunscreen ingredients may pose to both our health and the environment. As an experienced cosmetics supplier and service provider, Alfa Chemistry understands the importance of using safe and effective sunscreen ingredients. In this article, we will delve into the active sunscreen ingredients that have been banned or that you might want to avoid in your cosmetic formulas.
Oxybenzone is one of the most widely used chemical sunscreen ingredients, but it has been banned in some areas, such as Hawaii and Key West, Florida, due to its harmful effects on coral reefs. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can contribute to coral bleaching and disrupt the development of marine life. Additionally, oxybenzone has been linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions in humans.
Octinoxate is another common chemical sunscreen ingredient. Like oxybenzone, octinoxate has been found to be toxic to coral reefs and other marine organisms. Octinoxate has been banned in Hawaii, Key West, Florida, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to protect fragile marine ecosystems. [1]
Recent regulatory updates and scientific research shed light on potential risks associated with certain sunscreen ingredients. Listed below are some of the potential health concerns of active sunscreen ingredients, which means that sunscreen cosmetic formulations need to be developed with more caution. Sunscreen manufacturers must prioritize the safety and efficacy of sunscreen ingredients, ensuring formulas provide effective UV protection without compromising overall health and well-being.
Homosalate, commonly utilized in U.S. sunscreens, has raised concerns due to its ability to penetrate the skin and potential hormone disruption. In 2021, the European Commission recommended a maximum concentration of 1.4%, which is well below the 15% concentration that U.S. sunscreen manufacturers are legally allowed to use.
Like homosalate, octisalate and octocrylene have been found to readily absorb through the skin, raising questions about their systemic exposure in sunscreen users.
Avobenzone, widely used for UVA protection, is notable for its instability, requiring the use of other stabilizing ingredients in sunscreen formulations. Breakdown products of avobenzone have been linked to allergic reactions, while the chemical itself has demonstrated endocrine-disrupting effects, potentially interfering with testosterone in cellular studies. In a 2020 study, with a single application exposure (Day 1), the maximum plasma concentration of avobenzone detected was 1.6 ng/mL (CV, 49.0%), which exceeds the FDA threshold of 0.5 ng /mL). [2]
Mineral sunscreens containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are generally considered safer, as evidence suggests limited penetration through the skin to reach living tissues. However, the potential for exposure through inhalation has prompted caution, particularly in powdered or spray formulations.
| Sunscreen Active Ingredients | Maximum Allowable Concentration | Sunscreen Active Ingredients | Maximum Allowable Concentration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aminobenzoic acid (PABA) | 15% | Avobenzone | 3% |
| Cinoxate | 3% | Dioxybenzone | 3% |
| Homosalate | 15% | Menthyl anthranilate | 5% |
| Octocrylene | 10% | Octyl methoxycinnamate | 7.5% |
| Octyl salicylate | 5% | Oxybenzone | 6% |
| Padimate O | 8% | Phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid | 4% |
| Sulisobenzone | 10% | Titanium dioxide | 25% |
| Trolamine salicylate | 12% | Zinc Oxide | 25% |
References
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