Oxybenzone
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
UV chemical filter
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Sunscreens, nail polishes, hair sprays, cosmetic products
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OXYBENZONE ?
As a chemical filter, oxybenzone absorbs ultraviolet rays, thereby protecting skin cells from photodamage. Chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone tend to be easy to apply and blend well into the skin.
WHAT IS OXYBENZONE ?
Oxybenzone is an organic compound that is a derivative of benzophenone. It is commonly used in chemical sunscreens because it absorbs ultraviolet radiation. In addition, oxybenzone works as a photo-stabilizer, preventing other UV filters from losing their effectiveness in sunlight.
IS OXYBENZONE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
A potential side effect of oxybenzone in chemical sunscreens is dermatitis, resulting in skin redness and irritation after use.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Recent studies have shown that oxybenzone levels can be detected in the bloodstream following chemical sunscreen application. The clinical implications of these findings require further investigation.
Sources:
National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 4632, Oxybenzone. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Oxybenzone. Accessed June 6, 2023.
Agin PP, Ruble K, Hermansky SJ, McCarthy TJ. Rates of allergic sensitization and irritation to oxybenzone-containing sunscreen products: a quantitative meta-analysis of 64 exaggerated use studies. Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine. 2008;24(4):211-217
Matta MK, Zusterzeel R, Pilli NR, et al. Effect of sunscreen application under maximal use conditions on plasma concentration of sunscreen active ingredients: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA. 2019;321(21):2082.
