Get a Free 5ml Mini Now Free 5ml Mini With Every Order of The Mantle
Moumoujus

BENZOPHENONE-1.

Avoid CAS 131-56-6 / UV ABSORBER

Benzophenone-1 is a specialized UV absorber used primarily to safeguard the integrity of light-sensitive cosmetic formulations. By filtering ultraviolet radiation, it prevents the degradation of delicate active ingredients, fragrances, and pigments, ensuring the product remains potent and stable throughout its shelf life.

Summary

UV Absorber Light Stabilizer Photoprotectant

Science

Mechanism of Action

This oil-soluble diphenylketone operates by intercepting UV radiation in the 270–340 nm range (spanning UV-B and short-wave UV-A). It converts this electromagnetic energy into low-level infrared heat, acting as a chemical shield for the product and providing supplementary photoprotection for the skin's surface.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.5–10%
Optimal

2%

Key findings

  1. 01 Evaluation by the SCCS (2024) highlighted significant concerns regarding systemic absorption and potential endocrine disruption at 2% concentrations.
  2. 02 Research using rhesus monkey models demonstrated high dermal penetration rates, with absorption peaking at 69% under occlusive conditions.
  3. 03 Bio-monitoring in South Korea confirmed systemic presence, with the ingredient detected in the urine of 98% of participants using products containing BP-1.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
0.1%
Red flag below
2%

Since it is primarily a stabilizer, it is often used at very low levels (under 0.5%) just to protect product color. However, at concentrations near 2%, recent safety data suggests risks that outweigh its stabilizing benefits.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 7 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

Highly heat-resistant up to 200°C; however, it is naturally acidic and requires precise neutralization with agents like Sodium Hydroxide for optimal stability.

Synergies

  • Fragrance oils
  • Organic colorants
  • UV-sensitive actives

Conflicts

  • Heavy metals
  • Strong oxidizing agents

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
10%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk Low

There is a significant regulatory rift: while the US CIR currently maintains safety, the EU SCCS (2025) has flagged it as 'not safe' due to genotoxicity and endocrine-disrupting (estrogenic/anti-androgenic) potential.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Low

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

While effective at protecting product aesthetics, its high systemic absorption and potential for endocrine disruption make it an ingredient we recommend excluding from precision skincare.

Related

Similar Ingredients

Finding similar ingredients…