Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is a globally approved sunscreen agent that protects primarily from UVB rays, and some, but not all, UVA rays. The maximum amount of oxybenzone approved for use in sunscreens varies by country: the United States and Canada permit concentrations up to 6%; Australia, New Zealand, European Union countries and most countries in Asia allow up to 10% except Japan which caps it at 5%. Studies in people and animals have shown oxybenzone has an estrogenic effect; however, this activity is considered weak, and some studies have shown no such effect. In cases where a hormonal change was measured via topical application, the difference was one million-fold less than what was measured from normal hormonal activity in the body. Studies involving people have shown that common UV filters do not have a biologically significant effect on hormones. Moreover, the small amount of this ingredient capable of getting into the body via topical application is metabolized and excreted, just like similar water-soluble ingredients. Research on pregnant people using sunscreens with 6% oxybenzone has shown that enough of it can penetrate the skin, enter the body, and can cross the placental barrier. But just because fetal exposure to oxybenzone in sunscreen is possible does not mean any harm is being done; oxybenzone has never been shown to cause any type of birth defect. Interestingly, some studies have shown that oxybenzone itself isn’t to blame, but instead a metabolite (4-hydroxy-benzophenone) of this ingredient is the issue. This metabolite comes from benzophenone, a chemical used in pharmaceuticals, recycled paper, inks, furniture, paints, lacquers, even as a flavoring in candy. In essence, it’s impossible to avoid any exposure to these ingredients, but you can certainly opt to avoid sunscreens that contain oxybenzone. Oxybenzone is sometimes called out as a sunscreen active that is damaging to undersea coral reefs, the theory being that the sunscreen gets into the water from human activity in the oceans. However, despite research showing oxybenzone negatively impacts coral in vitro (meaning in a lab setting), there isn’t conclusive causation in a marine environment, especially given the numerous other factors, including climate change and ocean acidification believed to be the major causes of coral damage. This sunscreen ingredient is also called out for being a skin irritant; however, research examining widespread use of sunscreens containing oxybenzone hasn’t shown this to be the case. But as with all synthetic UV filters, a sensitised or allergic reaction is possible. Based on recent research on use of oxybenzone, it is one of several UV filters currently undergoing further safety testing under the purview of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This testing is to gain a better understanding of the systemic absorption, metabolism, and elimination of these sunscreen actives when small amounts enter the body via topical use. It’s important to know that the presence of this or other sunscreen actives in the body does not mean your health is at risk. It is anticipated that the additional testing being done will reaffirm the safety of these ingredients; however, those who remain concerned can choose sunscreens with mineral actives (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) which are not included in the FDA’s new call for additional testing.

Related ingredients: Benzephenone-3