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Moumoujus

ETHYL DIMETHYL PABA.

Avoid CAS 10287-53-3 / LIGHT STABILIZER

Ethyl Dimethyl PABA, known also as Padimate O, is a chemical UV-B filter historically used for its ultraviolet light absorption properties. However, its inherent photo-instability and potential for harmful byproducts upon light exposure present significant safety concerns for its application in skincare.

Summary

UV Filter UV Absorber Skin Protecting

Science

Mechanism of Action

This compound primarily functions by absorbing UV-B radiation, specifically within the 280-320 nm range, thereby converting harmful UV energy into less damaging heat. A critical limitation is its photo-instability; upon exposure to both UVA and UVB light, it undergoes photodegradation. This process not only diminishes its efficacy as a UV filter but also generates free radicals and can directly induce DNA damage, potentially contributing to photo-induced carcinogenesis. The ingredient is known to penetrate human skin.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 No skin irritation or sensitization.
  2. 02 Increased DNA strand breaks upon sunlight exposure.
  3. 03 Inhibited cell growth and DNA synthesis in vitro.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted
Red flag below
8%

While Ethyl Dimethyl PABA served as a UV-B filter, its pronounced photo-instability is a critical drawback. It experiences a significant loss of efficacy, with 10% degradation within 20 minutes and 50% within 85 minutes of light exposure, leading to reduced protection and free radical generation. More concerningly, evidence suggests it can directly damage DNA when activated by light and may contribute to increased mutagenicity and sun-induced cancer, even when incorporated into sunscreens at functional SPF levels. This makes its inclusion in formulations highly problematic at any concentration.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Ethyl Dimethyl PABA is an oily, yellow liquid that is insoluble in water and acetic acid, yet soluble in alcohol, strong acids, and strong bases. Its primary formulation challenge is its severe photo-instability; it readily photodegrades upon light exposure, leading to a rapid reduction in UV-filtering efficacy and the generation of free radicals. Due to these stability issues, it is widely considered photo-unstable and has largely been superseded by more stable UV filter alternatives.

Conflicts

  • light exposure (photodegradation, free radical generation, reduced efficacy)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Deferred evaluation
Max tested
8%
Pregnancy
Caution
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel deferred its evaluation, acknowledging prior assessment by the FDA. While the SCCNFP (a predecessor to SCCS) found no estrogenic effects from allowed UV filters including this one, Ethyl Dimethyl PABA is not advised for use by infants or individuals with very sensitive skin. It is recognized as a suspected endocrine disruptor, a potential allergen, and has been classified as a suspected mutagen and carcinogen. Animal studies have indicated potential toxicity affecting the testis, epididymis, spleen, and liver. Furthermore, studies confirm increased mutagenicity following sun exposure, strongly suggesting its potential contribution to sun-induced cancer development. Japan permits a maximum concentration of 3%.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

Considering its severe photo-instability, confirmed capacity to generate free radicals and induce DNA damage upon light exposure, and its status as a suspected mutagen, carcinogen, and endocrine disruptor, Moumoujus strongly recommends avoiding the use of Ethyl Dimethyl PABA in any formulation.

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