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TEREPHTHALYLIDENE DICAMPHOR SULFONIC ACID.

Valuable CAS 92761-26-7 / 90457-82-2 / LIGHT STABILIZER, UV ABSORBER, UV FILTER

Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid, also known as Ecamsule or Mexoryl SX, is a highly effective, water-soluble organic UVA filter. It provides robust protection against a broad spectrum of UVA radiation, making it a cornerstone ingredient in advanced photoprotection formulations. Its unique mechanism ensures UV energy is dissipated safely without skin penetration, guarding against photoaging and cellular damage.

Summary

sunscreen uv absorber uv filter

Science

Mechanism of Action

This organic UV-A filter functions by absorbing ultraviolet radiation predominantly in the 290–400 nm range, with peak efficiency at 345 nm. Upon UV exposure, Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid undergoes a reversible photoisomerization and subsequent photoexcitation. The absorbed UV energy is then converted into thermal energy and released, forming an invisible protective barrier on the skin's surface without dermal absorption. This process effectively blocks and filters harmful UV rays, preventing UV-induced skin damage, photoaging, and reducing the formation of pyrimidine dimers.

Research

Clinical Evidence

High confidence
Effective range 5–10%
Optimal

5%

Key findings

  1. 01 A 5% concentration of Ecamsule in sunscreen formulations effectively prevents early indicators of photoaging in human subjects.
  2. 02 Protection against UV-induced pigmentation demonstrates a direct correlation with increasing concentrations of Mexoryl SX, up to the approved 10% maximum usage level in the European Union. Human studies confirm negligible systemic absorption, with less than 0.1% absorbed, ensuring minimal health risk.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

No data available regarding dusting behavior for this ingredient.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid exhibits excellent photostability and chemical stability, maintaining its efficacy without significant degradation under light exposure. As an acidic compound, it necessitates neutralization during formulation, typically with pH-adjusting agents like triethanolamine, to achieve the desired optimal pH for the final product. It is readily miscible with other ingredients and offers good spreadability, enhancing product application. For comprehensive broad-spectrum protection, it is frequently co-formulated with oil-soluble UV filters.

Synergies

  • Oil-soluble UV filters (for broad-spectrum protection)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
10%
Sensitization risk Low

Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid is an FDA-approved sunscreen active (as Ecamsule) in the US for specific OTC drug products via NDA, and an approved UV filter in the European Union with a maximum permitted concentration of 10%. It is considered highly safe due to minimal percutaneous absorption (less than 0.1% systemic exposure) and negligible systemic effects. Studies in mice indicate it does not increase the risk of skin cancer, and it is not photomutagenic in vitro. The ingredient is generally non-irritating, well-tolerated, and hypoallergenic across various skin types.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

Yes Normal
Yes Dry
Yes Oily
Yes Sensitive
Irritancy Low
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Terephthalylidene Dicamphor Sulfonic Acid is a valuable, photostable, and well-tolerated UVA filter offering robust protection against photoaging and UV-induced skin damage, suitable for all skin types and an excellent choice for daily photoprotection.

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