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Comprehensive Cosmetic Industry Ingredient Guide

THIS IS A UNIVERSAL REFERENCE GUIDE FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES

THE INGRIDIENT BELOW IS NOT USED IN MITOSKIN FORMULATION UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE

Ingredient
2Hydroxy4methoxybenzophenoneOxybenzone

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone / Oxybenzone

Summary

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as Oxybenzone, is a widely used cosmetic ingredient that functions as a UV filter. It is effective in protecting the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, making it a popular ingredient in sunscreens and other sun protection products. Oxybenzone is also used in a variety of other cosmetic products, including moisturizers, lip balms, and hair care products. Despite some concerns about its potential impact on human health and the environment, Oxybenzone remains a commonly used ingredient in the cosmetic industry.

INCI Name and Common References

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone (INCI) / Oxybenzone (common name/nickname)

Function

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as Oxybenzone, is a common ingredient in sunscreen and other cosmetic formulations. It functions as a UV filter, absorbing and blocking harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun. This helps to protect the skin from sun damage, including sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Oxybenzone is often used in combination with other UV filters to provide broad-spectrum protection and improve the overall effectiveness of the product. However, there has been some controversy surrounding the safety of oxybenzone, with concerns raised about its potential hormone-disrupting effects and impact on the environment. As a result, some cosmetic companies have started to phase out the use of oxybenzone in their products and explore alternative UV filters.

Science

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as oxybenzone, is a chemical compound commonly used in sunscreens and other personal care products as a UV filter. Its physical properties allow it to absorb UV radiation and convert it into less harmful energy, preventing it from penetrating the skin and causing damage. Specifically, oxybenzone has a high molar absorptivity in the UVB and UVA range, meaning it can effectively absorb a large amount of UV radiation. Additionally, its lipophilic nature allows it to easily penetrate the skin and provide long-lasting protection. Overall, oxybenzone's physical properties make it an effective and commonly used ingredient in sunscreens and other personal care products designed to protect against UV radiation.

Benefits

- Protects skin from harmful UV rays - Prevents sunburn and skin damage - Reduces the risk of skin cancer - Helps to maintain even skin tone - May improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles - Can be used in combination with other sunscreen ingredients for enhanced protection

Negatives

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as oxybenzone, is a common ingredient found in many sunscreens and other personal care products. While it is generally considered safe for use, there are some potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions that should be taken into consideration. One of the most common side effects of oxybenzone is skin irritation or allergic reactions. Some people may experience redness, itching, or swelling after using products containing this ingredient. In rare cases, more severe reactions such as hives or difficulty breathing may occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to stop using the product and seek medical attention. Oxybenzone has also been linked to hormone disruption and potential health risks. Some studies have suggested that this ingredient may mimic estrogen in the body, which could lead to reproductive issues or other health problems. While the evidence is not conclusive, some experts recommend avoiding products containing oxybenzone if you are pregnant or trying to conceive. In addition, oxybenzone may interact with other ingredients in personal care products. For example, it can react with chlorine in swimming pools to form harmful byproducts that can be absorbed through the skin. It is also important to note that oxybenzone can be harmful to coral reefs and other marine life, so it is best to avoid using products containing this ingredient when swimming or snorkeling in the ocean. Overall, while oxybenzone is generally considered safe for use in personal care products, it is important to be aware of potential side effects, sensitivities, and interactions. If you have any concerns about using products containing this ingredient, it is best to speak with your healthcare provider or a dermatologist.

Source

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as Oxybenzone, is a synthetic ingredient that is commonly used in sunscreens and other personal care products. It is derived from benzophenone, which is a natural compound found in certain plants. The processing pathway for Oxybenzone involves several steps, including the synthesis of benzophenone and the subsequent modification of its chemical structure to create the desired properties. This may involve the use of various chemicals and solvents, as well as purification and testing to ensure the final product meets quality standards. Once produced, Oxybenzone can be incorporated into a variety of formulations for use in cosmetics and other products.

Safety

The safety rating score of 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as Oxybenzone, varies depending on the rating system used. According to the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database, Oxybenzone has a moderate hazard rating of 4 out of 10, with concerns about its potential to cause skin allergies and hormone disruption. The European Union's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has also identified Oxybenzone as a potential endocrine disruptor and has restricted its use in cosmetic products. However, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved Oxybenzone for use in sunscreens and considers it safe at concentrations up to 6%. Overall, while Oxybenzone is widely used in sunscreens and other personal care products, consumers may want to consider alternatives with lower hazard ratings if they have concerns about its safety.

Sustainability

2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as oxybenzone, is a common ingredient found in many sunscreens and other personal care products. While it is effective at protecting the skin from harmful UV rays, there are concerns about its environmental impact and ethical sourcing practices. One of the main environmental concerns with oxybenzone is its potential to harm coral reefs. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can cause coral bleaching, which can lead to the death of coral reefs. This is particularly concerning given the importance of coral reefs as habitats for marine life and their role in protecting coastlines from storms and erosion. In addition to its impact on coral reefs, there are also concerns about the ethical sourcing practices of oxybenzone. The ingredient is often derived from petrochemicals, which can have negative environmental impacts during the extraction and production process. There are also concerns about the potential for exploitation of workers in the petrochemical industry. To address these concerns, some companies are taking steps to reduce their use of oxybenzone and other harmful ingredients in their products. They are also exploring alternative ingredients that are less harmful to the environment and have more ethical sourcing practices. Overall, while oxybenzone is effective at protecting the skin from UV rays, its potential impact on coral reefs and ethical sourcing practices are important considerations for consumers and companies alike. By choosing products that use alternative ingredients and have more sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, we can help protect the environment and support responsible production practices.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, also known as Oxybenzone, is a common ingredient in sunscreens and other personal care products due to its ability to absorb UV radiation. While it has been shown to be effective in protecting the skin from sun damage, there are concerns about its potential negative effects on human health and the environment. Oxybenzone has been linked to hormone disruption and coral reef damage, leading some countries to ban its use in certain products. However, it remains a widely used ingredient in many sunscreens. Alternative ingredients, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are available for those who wish to avoid Oxybenzone. Overall, it is important to weigh the benefits and risks of using products containing Oxybenzone and make informed choices about personal care.

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