CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE
Commonly Found In
Overview
CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for ANTIMICROBIAL. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Camphor benzalkonium methosulfate, Mexoryl SD
Key Benefits
Camphor benzalkonium methosulfate functions primarily as a UV filter and antimicrobial agent. It may help protect the skin from UVA radiation when used in sunscreen formulations.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; UV filter with quaternary ammonium structure used at low concentrations.
Source: SCCS opinion; manufacturer safety data
Irritancy Rating
Low irritancy at typical UV filter concentrations; the cationic quaternary structure may occasionally cause mild sensitization, but clinical data specific to this compound is limited. Generally considered safe at EU-permitted concentrations (up to 6%).
Source: SCCS/1533/14; EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI
Typical Use Concentration
Range
Up to limits specified in Annex VI
Optimal
Per regulatory specifications
Use concentration governed by EU Annex VI UV filter regulations.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
Listed in EU Annex VI as an approved UV filter. Cationic surfactant nature may cause formulation incompatibilities.
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/2) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU Annex VI lists permitted UV filters with specific conditions. Japan similarly permits UV filters under its positive list system. The UK post-Brexit listing differs from EU in some cases.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in UK but allowed in EU, USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 84 ingredients in the ANTIMICROBIAL category. 99% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Not found in nature. A synthetic compound combining camphor (which occurs naturally in the wood of camphor trees) with a benzalkonium quaternary ammonium salt.
π How It's Made
Synthesized by quaternization of a camphor-derived sulfonate with benzalkonium compounds. The complex synthesis produces a UV-absorbing cationic surfactant.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used in cosmetic products primarily for antimicrobial, antistatic, uv absorber, uv filter.
π¬ Other Applications
No significant non-cosmetic uses. Camphor itself is used in moth repellents, traditional medicine (topical pain relief), and as a plasticizer for cellulose nitrate.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Camphor has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years across Asia β ancient Chinese and Indian texts describe its medicinal properties
- β’ The camphor tree (Cinnamomum camphora) can live for over 1,000 years and was sacred in Japanese culture
- β’ This combination ingredient was designed to provide UV protection with conditioning properties, but fell out of use as more effective UV filters were developed
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex VI
- β’ Japanese Standards for Cosmetic Ingredients
- β’ FDA sunscreen monograph
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE used for in cosmetics?
CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE is primarily used for antimicrobial in cosmetic products. It also serves as antistatic, uv absorber. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE?
CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For antimicrobial, 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 CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE?
Official information about CAMPHOR BENZALKONIUM METHOSULFATE 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.