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Moumoujus

BENZYLIDENE CAMPHOR SULFONIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 56039-58-8 / LIGHT STABILIZER, UV ABSORBER, UV FILTER

A high-performance organic UV filter and light stabilizer valued for its exceptional photostability and ability to protect skin from erythema. Unlike many chemical filters that degrade rapidly, this camphor-derived sulfonic acid maintains its integrity under solar stress, making it a reliable choice for long-wear sun protection.

Summary

UV filter UV absorber Light stabilizer

Science

Mechanism of Action

This molecule acts as a chemical absorber of ultraviolet radiation, specifically targeting the UVB and shorter UVA spectrum with a peak absorption between 294-300 nm. Upon photon contact, it transitions to an excited energy state and then safely dissipates that energy as harmless thermal radiation (heat) as it returns to its ground state, preventing DNA damage and photo-immunosuppression.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 0.1–6%
Optimal

6%

Key findings

  1. 01 Clinical evaluations published in the Journal of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology Research (2025) confirm its efficacy as a broadband filter protecting against UV-induced redness and immune system suppression.
  2. 02 In vitro studies by the University of Copenhagen suggest potential endocrine-mimicking effects on calcium signaling in cellular models, though dermal relevance remains a subject of ongoing research.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

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

Because it functions as a regulated UV filter and stabilizer, it is rarely 'dusted' at negligible levels; however, formulations using it solely for product stabilization (light protection for the formula itself) may use lower concentrations than those required for skin-level SPF claims.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH 4 – 7.5
0 7 14

Stability

Highly photostable; it does not degrade significantly under UV exposure and is frequently utilized to stabilize other more volatile UV filters in a formula.

Synergies

  • Photo-unstable UV filters
  • Antioxidants
  • Water-based serums

Conflicts

  • Strong oxidizing agents
  • Highly alkaline environments (pH > 7.5)
  • Extreme temperature fluctuations which may cause crystallization

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
6%
Sensitization risk Moderate

Approved at a 6% maximum in the EU, Australia, and Japan. In the US, it is not an FDA-approved active sunscreen ingredient but may appear in cosmetics as a light stabilizer to protect product color and integrity.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

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

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

An exceptionally photostable water-soluble UV filter that serves as a critical structural stabilizer for complex sun protection formulas.

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