Sulisobenzone
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Ultraviolet filter
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Sunscreens, creams, cosmetic products
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SULISOBENZONE?
Sulisobenzone provides protection from ultraviolet-A2 and ultraviolet-B light. However, it is rarely used in products without oxybenzone since it is superior when in combination with oxybenzone.
WHAT IS SULISOBENZONE?
Sulisobenzone (i.e., benzophenone-4) is an FDA-approved organic ultraviolet-A2 (UV-A2) and ultraviolet-B (UV-B) light filter.
IS SULISOBENZONE SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
In vivo studies have shown that sulisobenzone is not associated with irritation. However, there are other studies that report its allergenic or irritation potential.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There are no absolute contraindications for using products with sulisobenzone, but those with benzophenone allergies or reactions should avoid using products containing sulisobenzone. Sulisobenzone is thought to have immunosuppressive action, so it should be used with caution in patients who may be immunocompromised.
Sources:
Baer RL, Ramsay DL. Polyvalent light sensitivity (persistent light reactivity?); allergic contact sensitivity to sulisobenzone. Arch Dermatol. 1971;104(4):446-448.
Frikeche J, Couteau C, Roussakis C, Coiffard LJ. Research on the immunosuppressive activity of ingredients contained in sunscreens. Arch Dermatol Res. 2015;307(3):211-218.
Hanson JL, Warshaw EM. Sensitivity to multiple benzophenone sunscreen agents. Dermatitis. 2015;26(4):192-194.
Jarratt M, Hill M, Smiles K. Topical protection against long-wave ultraviolet A. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1983;9(3):354-360.
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.
