Homosalate
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Ultraviolet light filter
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Sunscreen, cosmetics, creams
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HOMOSALATE?
Homosalate primarily functions as a filter of ultraviolet (UV) light in the UV-B range (280-315 nm). It has additionally been shown to suppress photosensitized singlet oxygen generation. It leads to increased interleukin-8 (IL-8) and IL-1ß release. Otherwise, it has been shown to have minimal intrinsic biologic activity and toxicity.
WHAT IS HOMOSALATE?
Homosalate (3,3,5-trimethylcyclohexyl salicylate) is an organic filter of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light. Its salicylic portion protects from light in the UV-B spectrum (280-315 nm). It is used worldwide in sunscreens and cosmetic products for its sun protective abilities.
IS HOMOSALATE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Homosalate is thought to be safe for all skin types and tones based on available research. Multiple studies of systemic absorption reveals dermal permeability with concentrations of homosalate exceeding FDA allowable levels. Some concerns with endocrine disruption, including estrogenic or anti-androgenic effects, have been reported but not conclusively demonstrated.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There are no absolute contraindications to homosalate use based on available evidence. Individuals with a reaction to homosalate should avoid use of products containing it. Homosalate allergy is not traditionally associated with photoallergy.
Sources:
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Kim TH, Shin BS, Kim KB, et al. Percutaneous absorption, disposition, and exposure assessment of homosalate, a UV filtering agent, in rats. J Toxicol Environ Health A. 2014;77(4):202-213.
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