Modern UVA filter approved in the EU in 2024 (Regulation 1223/2009 Annex VI). Covers long-wave UVA up to 400 nm – a range previously addressed only by Mexoryl XL. Water-soluble, photostable, stays in the stratum corneum. Used in day creams and sunscreens with claims of protection against pigmentation and photoageing.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
Novel UVA filter with confirmed photostability and UVA1 coverage up to 400 nm. Safety assessed by SCCS before inclusion in Annex VI. Allergenic and endocrine profile shows no flags at the time of authorization.
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid (HPPBA, trade name Mexoryl 400) is a next-generation UVA filter approved by SCCS in the EU in 2024 (Regulation 1223/2009 Annex VI). Developed by L'Oréal, patented 2014, first Spanish registration 2024. Mechanism. Absorbs UVA1 and part of visible light up to 400 nm – the range previously covered only by Mexoryl XL (Drometrizole Trisiloxane), which did not offer such deep coverage. Critical because UVA1 (340-400 nm) is the main trigger of pigmentation, photoaging, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Where applied. Day creams, sunscreens, anti-pigmentation, anti-aging formulas (up to 3%). In Spain already in La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400, Vichy Capital Soleil UV-Age, Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advanced. All L'Oréal Group products launch with this filter. Evidence base. L'Oréal studies (2018-2023) showed reduced visible-light- and UVA1-induced pigmentation in patients with melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Lyons 2022 RCT in 50 women with melasma: adding Mexoryl 400 to standard protection reduced MASI score by 30% over 12 weeks. Safety. SCCS 2019 (Opinion 1591/17) confirmed HPPBA safe up to 3% in cosmetics. Water-soluble, stays in stratum corneum, minimal systemic absorption. Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, no hormonal disruption. Pregnancy and lactation – safe topically (SAFE). Suitable for all skin types, especially in melasma, pigmentation, photoaging. Not FDA-registered in the US (US UV filter lag persists since 1999).
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
SafeSuitable for
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
Modern UVA filter approved in the EU in 2024 (Regulation 1223/2009 Annex VI).
The INCI name is Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid. It may also appear as: HEPB, Mexoryl 400, Гидроксифенилпропамидобензойная кислота.
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