BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE
Commonly Found In
Overview
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE 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: Avobenzone, Parsol 1789, Eusolex 9020, 4-t-Butyl-4'-methoxydibenzoylmethane
Key Benefits
Avobenzone is the primary oil-soluble UVA filter available in the US market. Studies suggest it may help protect skin from UVA-induced photoaging and DNA damage by absorbing long-wave UVA radiation (320β400 nm, peak ~360 nm). Its photostability limitations mean that protection may diminish over extended exposure without stabilizers.
Supporting Research
- β’ Gonzalez & Levy (1998) β UVA protection and photostability comparison of avobenzone formulations (Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed)
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; used in lightweight leave-on formulas without pore-clogging concerns.
Source: CIR safety assessment; SCCS/1533/14
Irritancy Rating
Generally low irritancy; contact allergy reported rarely. Photodegrades under UV exposure, which can affect formula stability rather than skin irritation directly.
Source: SCCS Opinion SCCS/1263/09; CIR Expert Panel
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β5%
Optimal
3%
EU Annex VI permits up to 5%. FDA OTC monograph permits up to 3%. Japan allows use. Australia TGA permits. The FDA classifies it as Category III (more safety data needed), but it remains widely used in US sunscreens under existing OTC monograph rules.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Avobenzone is photo-unstable and degrades under UV exposure unless stabilized by octocrylene, Tinosorb S (BEMT), or Tinosorb M. Titanium dioxide may accelerate its photodegradation. Formulation with photostabilizers is essential for prolonged UV protection.
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 | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (VI/8) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Avobenzone is approved in the EU (Annex VI, up to 5%), Japan, Australia, and most global markets. In the US, the FDA classified it as Category III in its 2019 Proposed Rule, citing insufficient data on systemic absorption for a GRASE determination, yet it continues to be marketed under the existing OTC monograph. This creates regulatory uncertainty in the US context.
Recent Regulatory Changes
- β’ FDA 2019 Proposed Rule classified avobenzone as Category III (insufficient data)
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
Avobenzone is entirely synthetic and does not occur in nature. It was developed through systematic screening of dibenzoylmethane scaffolds for oil-soluble UVA absorbers compatible with topical formulations.
π How It's Made
Synthesized by reacting 4-tert-butylbenzoic methyl ester (obtained from 4-tert-butylbenzoic acid by esterification with methanol) with 4-methoxyacetophenone in toluene in the presence of sodium amide via Claisen condensation. Modern processes use potassium methoxide as the base catalyst, achieving yields up to 95%.
π Uses in Cosmetics
A UVA sunscreen filter that protects against aging-related UV rays. Used at 2-5% in sunscreens. Known by the brand name Avobenzone. One of the most common UVA protection ingredients in the world.
π¬ Other Applications
Used in pharmaceutical formulations to protect drug compounds from UV light. Also used in protective coatings and varnishes for UV stability.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Patented in 1973 and first approved in the EU in 1978 as a sunscreen ingredient
- β’ FDA approved it in 1988, making it the first broad-spectrum UVA filter available in the United States
- β’ Known by the brand name Parsol 1789 β one of the most widely used UVA protection ingredients in the world
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI
- β’ FDA Proposed Rule on Sunscreen Ingredients 2019 (84 FR 6204)
- β’ Japan MHLW UV filter positive list
- β’ Australia TGA UV filter list
- β’ CIR Expert Panel data
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
BENZOPHENONE-3
BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
DIETHYLAMINO HYDROXYBENZOYL HEXYL BENZOATE
DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE
ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
OCTOCRYLENE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE used for in cosmetics?
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE 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 BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE?
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE, 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 BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE?
Official information about BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE 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.