Ensulizole
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Ultraviolet filter
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Sunscreen, creams, cosmetic products
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ENSULIZOLE ?
Ensulizole provides strong ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light protection, though it has minimal ultraviolet-A (UV-A) protection. Because it is water-soluble, it often provides a less greasy feel in products containing it.
WHAT IS ENSULIZOLE ?
Ensulizole (i.e., phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid) is an FDA-approved water-soluble organic ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light filter.
IS ENSULIZOLE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Ensulizole is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available evidence. It has not been reported to be associated with photosensitization, significant dermal absorption or an allergic response. However, it has been shown to oxidize guanine residues in cellulo while preventing cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers; therefore it may have some photosensitization effect.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There are no absolute contraindications for ensulizole based on available evidence. It should be used with caution in patients who have an allergy to it. It has been posited to cause facial dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis, so patients may need to be aware of this possible outcome.
Sources:
Barrientos N, Abajo P, de Celada RA, de Vega MM, Domínguez J. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid included in a sunscreen. Contact Dermatitis. 2019;81(2):151-152.
Bastien N, Millau JF, Rouabhia M, Davies RJ, Drouin R. The sunscreen agent 2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid photosensitizes the formation of oxidized guanines in cellulo after UV-A or UV-B exposure. J Invest Dermatol. 2010;130(10):2463-2471.
Nedorost S. Ensulizole (phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid) as a cause of facial dermatitis: two cases. Dermatitis. 2005;16(3):148.
Pantelic MN, Wong N, Kwa M, Lim HW. Ultraviolet filters in the United States and European Union: A review of safety and implications for the future of US sunscreens. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2023;88(3):632-646.
Rajamohan R, Kamaraj E, Govindasamy C, et al. Formulation of Ensulizole with Beta-Cyclodextrins for Improved Sunscreen Activity and Biocompatibility. J Pharm Sci. Published online December 24, 2023.
