Ethylhexyl Salicylate
A salicylate-type UVB filter. It absorbs short-wave radiation and dissolves other filters. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A functional UVB filter. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Octisalate (Octyl Salicylate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate) is an organic UV filter, an ester of salicylic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. Absorbs UVB (290–320 nm). Mechanism. The salicylate chromophore absorbs UVB energy and dissipates it as heat. On its own gives only UVB protection – used in combination with UVA filters (avobenzone, octocrylene, Mexoryl) for broad-spectrum protection. A solvent for other UV filters (especially avobenzone). Where applied. Sunscreens, BB creams, foundations with SPF, lipsticks with SPF. EU Regulation 1223/2009 concentration – up to 5%. In Spain in most mass-market SPF products. Evidence base. SCCS confirmed safety. Stabilizes avobenzone in combination formulas, preventing its photodegradation. Safety. Well tolerated. Contact allergies are rare (<0.5%). In 2019 the FDA requested additional data on systemic absorption (Matta 2020 showed systemic absorption in volunteers). Safety is confirmed but monitoring continues. Pregnancy and lactation – manufacturers advise caution. No direct data, systemic absorption is documented. AAD 2023 recommends mineral filters (titanium dioxide, zinc oxide) in pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ethylhexyl Salicylate safe during pregnancy?
Ethylhexyl Salicylate is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Ethylhexyl Salicylate for?
Ethylhexyl Salicylate suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Ethylhexyl Salicylate and what does it do in cosmetics?
A salicylate-type UVB filter.
Is Ethylhexyl Salicylate comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 1/5 – very low comedogenicity. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Ethylhexyl Salicylate?
The INCI name is Ethylhexyl Salicylate. It may also appear as: Octisalate, Octisalato.
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Ethylhexyl Triazone, Ferulic Acid, Green Tea Extract, Homosalate, Mexoryl SX, Polypodium Leucotomos Root Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Brassica Oleracea Acephala (Kale) Leaf Extract
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