Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3)
Oxybenzone, listed as benzophenone-3, is an organic (chemical) UV filter used in sunscreens.
- Used in
- Cosmetic ingredient (INCI)
- Role
- UV filter
Contains / relevant to
- Chemical UV filters: Relevant to people avoiding chemical UV filters. Organic UV filters such as oxybenzone and octocrylene.
- Contact dermatitis history: Common contact allergens from patch-test panels.
- Pregnant or planning: Ingredients your doctor may ask you to pause. Discuss before changing anything.
What to look for on labels
- Cosmetic ingredient lists use INCI names, in descending order of concentration down to 1 %; ingredients below 1 % can follow in any order.
Related
- OctocryleneOctocrylene is an organic UV filter that also stabilises other filters in sunscreens.
- Octinoxate (ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate)Octinoxate, listed as ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, is an organic UV filter that absorbs UVB.
- AvobenzoneAvobenzone is an organic UV filter that absorbs UVA light, listed in the EU as butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane.
- How to read cosmetic INCI lists for sensitive skinGuide
Sources
Concentration-limited in the EU with a mandatory label statement.
- EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Annex VI (allowed UV filters)
- IngrediLens ingredient database (names, flags and notes shown on this page)
Label information, not medical advice. This page describes how an ingredient is named and labelled and how IngrediLens flags it; it cannot tell you whether a product is safe for you. Always read the label on the product itself and follow the advice of your doctor, allergist or dermatologist. If someone shows signs of anaphylaxis, use their adrenaline auto-injector if they have one and call emergency services.
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