INCI: Ethylhexyl Salicylate
Medium-strength UVB filter that often stabilizes avobenzone and dissolves other filters. A staple of American and European sunscreens.
Topical application
BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations.
FDA 2019 listed octisalate among filters with insufficient systemic absorption data. Tolerance profile looks good, but the accumulation question stays open.
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.
Irritation potential
LowAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
CautionSuitable 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.
Octisalate should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Octisalate suits: normal, oily, combination, dry.
Medium-strength UVB filter that often stabilizes avobenzone and dissolves other filters.
The INCI name is Ethylhexyl Salicylate. It may also appear as: Октисалат.
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