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Moumoujus

BENZOTHIAZOLE.

Avoid CAS 95-16-9 / PERFUMING

Benzothiazole is a specialized heterocyclic compound primarily utilized in skincare as a chemical scaffold for developing high-performance UV filters and antioxidants. While it offers promising photoprotective capabilities, its presence in commercial products is currently most common as a fragrance constituent rather than a standalone active.

Summary

UV absorber Antioxidant Fragrance Antimicrobial

Science

Mechanism of Action

This molecule serves as a structural backbone for sun-protective agents, functioning by absorbing ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation and neutralizing oxidative stress through radical scavenging. Additionally, it exhibits significant antimicrobial and antifungal activity, specifically targeting dermatophytes and yeast-like fungi that can disrupt the skin's microbiome.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range 1–3%
Optimal

3%

Key findings

  1. 01 In vitro testing of a 3% benzothiazole derivative achieved an SPF value of 20.23, demonstrating its potential as an independent photoprotective agent.
  2. 02 A 1% concentration in O/W emulsions showed exceptional photostability and effective antioxidant performance in DPPH and FRAP biological assays.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Min. effective
1%
Red flag below
0.5%

As this ingredient is often utilized in the fragrance industry or in experimental UV research, it is rarely included at therapeutic levels (1-3%) in mass-market formulations. Any concentration below 1% is likely for scenting purposes rather than functional photoprotection.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Both
Optimal pH 6 – 8
0 7 14

Stability

The compound is highly resistant to light-induced degradation but remains sensitive to oxidative stress when exposed to strong oxidizing environments.

Synergies

  • Antioxidants
  • Heterocyclic UV filters

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Strong acids

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed by CIR; safety primarily managed via RIFM standards.
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk High

The parent compound is identified as a significant skin and eye irritant by ECHA. It is not currently recommended for use in high concentrations in leave-on skincare for reactive skin.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

While scientifically intriguing for future UV research, its current status as a high irritant with insufficient safety data makes it unsuitable for precision skincare.

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