Ethylhexyl Triazone

Best

UV filter

Ethylhexyl Triazone at a glance

  • Synthetic UV filter that helps protect skin against UVB rays
  • Not approved in the United States and Canada but available in other markets around the world
  • Used in up to 5% concentration
  • Also functions as a photostabilizer for other UV filters such as avobenzone
  • Favorable in water-resistant formulations

Ethylhexyl Triazone description

Ethylhexyl triazone is a synthetic sunscreen ingredient known for excellent ability to help protect skin from UVB rays. It is not currently approved as a sunscreen agent in the United States and Canada but is available in other markets in up to 5% concentration. Ethylhexyl triazone offers peak protection at 314nm within the UVB spectrum. As such, it must be combined with other sunscreen agents to achieve optimal broad spectrum protection. It helps boost the photostability of other UV filters such as avobenzone. Ethylhexyl triazone’s insolubility in water makes it favorable in water-resistant formulations. On the flip side, it can be difficult to formulate with in water-based formulas; however, chemists have found ways to work around this by developing unique delivery systems, including encapsulation methods. Of note, researchers point out ethylhexyl triazone’s high molecular weight (823.07 g mol−1) limits its penetration. This is a good thing as you want your sunscreen ingredients to remain in the uppermost layers of skin where they can best provide a first line of defense against damaging UV rays. Limiting penetration of UV filters like this also reduces the risk of experiencing a sensitized reaction. Ethylhexyl triazone comes as a white to off white powder in its raw material form.

Ethylhexyl Triazone references

  • Pharmaceutics, September 2022, pages 1-19
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology , December 2018, pages 22-31
  • Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences , April 2015, pages 807-814
  • The Scientific World Journal , May 2012, pages 1-6

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.