BENZOPHENONE-3
Commonly Found In
Overview
BENZOPHENONE-3 is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for LIGHT STABILIZER. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Oxybenzone, Benzophenone-3, 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone, Eusolex 4360
Key Benefits
Oxybenzone absorbs both UVB and short-wave UVA radiation, which may help protect skin from sunburn and some UV-induced photoaging. Studies suggest it provides broad-spectrum coverage, though concerns about systemic absorption and potential endocrine activity at high doses have prompted regulatory re-evaluation in several markets.
Supporting Research
- β’ Scheuer & Warshaw (2006) β review of sunscreen allergens including oxybenzone (Dermatitis)
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Considered non-comedogenic; disperses in water-based formulas without occluding pores.
Source: CIR Expert Panel safety assessment
Irritancy Rating
Low general irritancy; however, contact allergy and photoallergy occur in approximately 1-3% of the population, making it one of the more common sunscreen allergens.
Source: SCCS/1533/14; Scheuer & Warshaw 2006 (Dermatitis)
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.5β6%
Optimal
3β6%
EU Annex VI maximum: 6% for face/body leave-on, 0.5% for spray products. FDA OTC monograph permits up to 6% (Category III classification means more data needed). Hawaii banned it effective Jan 2021 for reef protection.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Photostable organic UV filter. The SCCS (EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) assessed oxybenzone at β€6% as safe for face/body but concerns remain about spray inhalation. Hawaii and Palau have enacted environmental bans due to coral reef toxicity.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Restricted | 5.0% | When used as UV protection | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (VI/4) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Oxybenzone is one of the most scrutinized UV filters globally due to endocrine activity concerns at high systemic doses (demonstrated in animal studies) and coral reef toxicity. The SCCS assessed it safe at EU limits. The FDA classified it Category III in 2019. Hawaii (2021) and Palau banned it environmentally. The divergence reflects different risk frameworks: human safety vs. ecosystem impact.
Recent Regulatory Changes
- β’ Hawaii: Ban effective January 1, 2021 (Act 104, SB 2571)
- β’ Palau: Ban effective January 2020
- β’ FDA 2019 Proposed Rule: Category III classification
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 34 ingredients in the LIGHT STABILIZER category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Entirely synthetic aromatic ketone belonging to the benzophenone class. No natural occurrence documented.
π How It's Made
Modern synthesis involves esterification where 3-benzoylbenzoic acid reacts with phenol, forming benzophenone-3 benzyl ester. Subsequent hydrolysis breaks the ester bond, yielding the benzophenone-3 molecule. Purification uses activated carbon decolorization to remove impurities, followed by recrystallization from water-methanol or ethanol-water mixture, with cooling from 60-70Β°C promoting crystal formation. Original 1906 synthesis by KΓΆnig and Kostanecki used condensation of resorcinol derivatives with benzoyl chloride.
π Uses in Cosmetics
A UV filter that protects skin from both UVB and short-wave UVA rays. Used at up to 6% in sunscreens. One of the most widely used chemical sunscreen ingredients worldwide.
π¬ Other Applications
Used to protect plastics, paints, and textiles from UV damage and fading. Also found in furniture coatings and protective varnishes.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ First created in 1906 by German chemists, but its UV-blocking ability wasn't recognized until decades later
- β’ Became commercially available as a sunscreen ingredient in the 1950s
- β’ FDA approved it for sunscreen use in the early 1980s β one of the first chemical UV filters approved in the US
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU SCCS Opinion SCCS/1533/14 on benzophenone-3
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI
- β’ FDA Proposed Rule 2019 (84 FR 6204)
- β’ Hawaii Act 104 (2018)
- β’ CIR Expert Panel review
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE
DIETHYLAMINO HYDROXYBENZOYL HEXYL BENZOATE
DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE
ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
OCTOCRYLENE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BENZOPHENONE-3 used for in cosmetics?
BENZOPHENONE-3 is primarily used for light stabilizer in cosmetic products. It also serves as uv absorber, uv filter. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate BENZOPHENONE-3?
BENZOPHENONE-3 is banned in UK. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in KR. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to BENZOPHENONE-3?
Due to regulatory restrictions on BENZOPHENONE-3, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For light stabilizer, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Where can I find official regulation information about BENZOPHENONE-3?
Official information about BENZOPHENONE-3 regulations can be found on government websites: EU CosIng database, US FDA Cosmetics page, Japan MHLW cosmetics standards, UK Government cosmetics guidance, and Korea MFDS. Always verify regulatory status with these official sources before making formulation decisions.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.