Ethylhexyl Triazone

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Low

Allergen risk

Low

Pregnancy

Safe

Suitable for

Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive

About this ingredient

Uvinul T 150 (Ethylhexyl Triazone, Octyl Triazone) is a potent organic UVB filter from BASF approved in the EU since 1994. It has the highest protection factor per unit mass among organic UVB filters – 15-20% higher than octinoxate (EHMC) and homosalate. Mechanism. Absorbs UV in 280-330 nm with a peak at 314 nm. Photostable – does not degrade under the sun within 24 hours in standard ISO tests. Oil-soluble, needs a carrier (triethylhexanoin, octocrylene). Where applied. EU sunscreens since the 1990s. In Spain – in Heliocare 360, Bioderma Photoderm, La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Avène Cleanance Solaire, ISDIN Fotoultra. EU max concentration – 5%. Typically used at 2-4% in combination with UVA filters (Tinosorb S, Mexoryl XL, zinc oxide). Evidence base. BASF registration studies and SCCS Opinion 1998 confirmed efficacy. Adding 5% Uvinul T 150 lifts SPF by roughly 20-30 units. One of the most effective UVB filters in real-world sunscreens. Safety. SCCS confirmed safety up to 5%. Non-sensitising, non-comedogenic. The molecule is large (823 Da); topical systemic absorption is very low (<0.5%). Not an endocrine disruptor. Pregnancy and lactation – safe. AEMPS and SCCS impose no restrictions. Unlike oxybenzone (banned in face sunscreens in Hawaii since 2021) and octinoxate (suspected endocrine disruptor), Uvinul T 150 has a clean safety profile. Not approved. In the US – not FDA-approved as a UVB filter (the 1999 FDA monograph did not include it, the update is stuck). Approved in Australia and Japan. EU and Canada – yes. As a result US sunscreens are typically weaker than EU analogues on UVB protection.

Frequently asked questions