Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)
One of the most widely used chemical UVB filters. Banned in Hawaii and Palau due to coral reef harm. Potential endocrine activity is under discussion.
Evidence by route
Topical application
FDA approved as a UV filter. Systemic absorption confirmed – plasma concentrations exceed the FDA threshold for additional studies. Weak estrogenic activity detected in vitro. Environmental harm to corals is established, leading to bans in several jurisdictions.
- Matta MK et al. JAMA. 2019;321(21):2082-2091. PMID 31058986
- Downs CA et al. Arch Environ Contam Toxicol. 2016;70(2):265-288. PMID 26487337
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
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Combination, Oily
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Octinoxate (INCI Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) is a synthetic organic UVB filter, the 2-ethylhexyl ester of methoxycinnamic acid. One of the oldest (since the 1960s) and most widely used UVB filters. Where applied. Sunscreens up to 7.5% in US, up to 10% in EU, Canada, Japan. Often combined with octocrylene, avobenzone, methyl salicylate. In Spain – Bioderma Photoderm, Avène Soleil, La Roche-Posay Anthelios. Hawaii Ban 2021 controversy. Hawaii banned sunscreen sales containing octinoxate and oxybenzone effective 1 January 2021 – both ingredients at 10-150 ppm damage coral reefs (bleaching, reproductive impairment). Similar bans in Palau, Bonaire, US Virgin Islands, Aruba. EU and FDA have not banned them but recommend eco-friendly alternatives in marine regions. Endocrine activity. In vitro studies showed weak octinoxate activity as an estrogen receptor agonist and testosterone suppressor in rats. In vivo human clinical significance after systemic absorption (FDA Matta JAMA 2020) has not been established. The Endocrine Society in 2020 recommended "cautious use" in pregnancy and childhood. Photostability. Octinoxate is photostable alone but destabilizes avobenzone in combination, degrading within 1-2 hours. Modern EU sunscreen formulas use octocrylene or Tinosorb S to stabilize avobenzone instead of octinoxate. Safety. CIR/SCCS confirm safety at cosmetic concentrations. Topical systemic absorption has been described. Allergic reactions and photocontact dermatitis in 1-2% of patients. Non-comedogenic. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. EU EMA recommends limited use in pregnancy and children under 6 months due to endocrine concerns. Spanish AEDV 2023 prefers mineral filters or newer organic filters (Tinosorb S, Mexoryl 400) in pregnancy and early childhood. Alternatives. Tinosorb S/M (photostable, no endocrine concerns), mineral filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide), Mexoryl SX/400, homosalate (with SCCS 2024 restrictions).
Frequently asked questions
Is Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) safe during pregnancy?
Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) for?
Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) suits: normal, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate) and what does it do in cosmetics?
One of the most widely used chemical UVB filters.
What's the INCI name for Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)?
The INCI name is Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate. It may also appear as: Octyl Methoxycinnamate, Octinoxate, 2-Ethylhexyl 4-Methoxycinnamate.
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