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Moumoujus

BENZOPHENONE-3.

Questionable CAS 131-57-7 / LIGHT STABILIZER, UV ABSORBER, UV FILTER

Also known as Oxybenzone, this oil-soluble organic compound serves as a broad-spectrum UV absorber in precision skincare. Beyond its role as a sunscreen agent, it functions as a critical photostabilizer, maintaining the structural integrity of complex formulas and other active UV filters when exposed to light.

Summary

UV filter Sunscreen agent Photostabilizer UV absorber

Science

Mechanism of Action

Benzophenone-3 utilizes conjugated double bonds to capture high-energy UVB and short-wave UVA (UVA II) radiation. Through a process of keto-enol tautomerism or internal conversion, it converts this potentially damaging electromagnetic energy into low-level thermal energy, thereby shielding skin cells from radiation-induced DNA damage and immediate erythema.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 2.2–6%
Optimal

6%

Key findings

  1. 01 In vivo testing confirmed rapid systemic absorption with metabolites detected in urine within 4 hours of application.
  2. 02 FDA Maximal Usage Trials (MUsT) indicated plasma concentrations exceeding 0.5 ng/mL after a single application, confirming high bioavailability.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
2%
Red flag below
1%

As a primary UV filter, it is rarely 'dusted' at negligible levels because it is regulated for specific SPF performance. However, concentrations below 2.2% in body products may be insufficient for primary protection but effective for formula stabilization.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 9
0 7 14

Stability

Highly photostable and thermally resilient with a melting point of 62-65°C. It effectively prevents the degradation of pigments and secondary UV filters.

Synergies

  • Photolabile UV filters
  • Cosmetic colorants
  • Broad-spectrum SPF enhancers

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong bases
  • Acid chlorides
  • Ketoprofen

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
6%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk Moderate

While CIR considers it safe, recent SCCS updates limit body products to 2.2% due to systemic absorption. The FDA has categorized it as 'not GRASE' (Category III) pending further endocrine and absorption data.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

An effective photostabilizer and UV filter currently under heavy regulatory scrutiny due to high systemic bioavailability and potential endocrine concerns.

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