OCTOCRYLENE
Commonly Found In
Overview
OCTOCRYLENE 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: Octocrylene, 2-Ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenylacrylate, Eusolex OCR, Uvinul N539T
Key Benefits
Octocrylene absorbs UVB and short-wave UVA radiation, which may help protect skin from UV-induced damage. It is notably photostable and may help stabilize other UV filters, particularly avobenzone, potentially improving the overall durability of sun protection in formulations.
Supporting Research
- β’ Chatelain & Gabard (2001) β octocrylene demonstrated photostabilizing effect on avobenzone in SPF formulations (Photochem Photobiol)
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; water-resistant UV filter used in lightweight formulas.
Source: CIR Expert Panel; SCCS/1566/16
Irritancy Rating
Moderate allergen potential; photoallergy and contact allergy rates reported at approximately 2β4% in some patch test populations, making it one of the more sensitizing organic UV filters. Often cross-reacts with ketoprofen.
Source: SCCS/1566/16; Karlsson et al. 2011 (Contact Dermatitis)
Typical Use Concentration
Range
1β10%
Optimal
5β10%
EU Annex VI maximum: 10%. FDA OTC monograph permits up to 10%. Provides photostabilization of avobenzone at concentrations above 2%.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Key photostabilizer for avobenzone. Research published in 2021 raised concerns about degradation over time to benzophenone-3 via retro-aldol condensation; products with older stocks or stored improperly may contain elevated benzophenone-3 levels. Oil-soluble; used in oil phase. FDA Category III.
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/10) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
Octocrylene is approved in the EU (up to 10%), Japan, Australia, and the US (up to 10% under OTC monograph). The FDA classified it Category III in 2019. Emerging data on its degradation to benzophenone-3 (a possible carcinogen) has prompted increased scrutiny; the EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has been asked to evaluate the implications.
Recent Regulatory Changes
- β’ FDA 2019 Proposed Rule: Category III classification
- β’ 2021 research showing degradation to benzophenone-3 in aged products (Chem Res Toxicol)
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 acrylate ester. No natural occurrence.
π How It's Made
Synthesized via Knoevenagel condensation of 2-ethylhexyl cyanoacetate with benzophenone. The reaction uses base catalysis to form the Ξ±,Ξ²-unsaturated ester. Unsubstituted benzophenone (BP), a possible human carcinogen, is used as the starting material.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Uvb Filter And Photostabilizer protecting against 280-320 nm (UVB and short-wave UVA). Used at Up to 10% in US and EU concentrations. The extended conjugation of the acrylate portion absorbs UVB and short-wave UVA (280-320 nm). The ethylhexanol portion provides emollient, oil-like, and water-resistant properties. Highly photostable and improves photostability of other sunscreens, particularly avobenzone.
π¬ Other Applications
Polymer UV stabilizer; Plastics additive to prevent UV degradation; Coating protectant in industrial applications
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Octocrylene has been approved by the FDA as an active sunscreen ingredient for decades and is one of the most widely used UV filters globally.
- β’ A major controversy emerged in 2021 when research published in Chemical Research in Toxicology revealed that octocrylene degrades over time into benzophenone (a possible human carcinogen) through retro-aldol condensation.
- β’ Sixteen recently-purchased octocrylene-containing products had an average benzophenone concentration of 39 mg/kg (range: 6-186 mg/kg). After FDA-accelerated stability testing, the average increased to 75 mg/kg (range: 9.8-435 mg/kg).
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex VI
- β’ FDA Proposed Rule 2019 (84 FR 6204)
- β’ Chatelain & Gabard, Photochem Photobiol 2001;74(3):401-406
- β’ Downs et al., Chem Res Toxicol 2021;34(4):1046-1054
- β’ CIR Expert Panel review
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
BENZOPHENONE-3
BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE
BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE
DIETHYLAMINO HYDROXYBENZOYL HEXYL BENZOATE
DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE
ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What is OCTOCRYLENE used for in cosmetics?
OCTOCRYLENE 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 OCTOCRYLENE?
OCTOCRYLENE is banned in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in EU, JP, US.
Are there alternatives to OCTOCRYLENE?
Due to regulatory restrictions on OCTOCRYLENE, 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 OCTOCRYLENE?
Official information about OCTOCRYLENE 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.