INCI: Benzophenone-3
Broad-spectrum UV filter, one of the oldest among chemical SPFs. Raises the most questions about endocrine safety and causes contact dermatitis more often than other filters.
Topical application
DVery weak or conflicting data.
FDA in 2019 assigned oxybenzone a «needs more safety data» status. Studies record systemic absorption above the established threshold and show signals of endocrine activity.
Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3, BP-3) is an organic UV filter of the benzophenone family. Absorbs UVB and part of UVA (270–360 nm). One of the oldest and most debated sunscreen components. Mechanism. The benzophenone chromophore absorbs UV energy and dissipates it as heat. Stabilizes other UV filters in the formula. Where applied. Sunscreens, BB creams with SPF, lipsticks, perfumery (as a UV-stabilizer of scent). EU Regulation 1223/2009 concentration – up to 6% (reduced from 10% in 2017). Banned in sunscreen cosmetics in Hawaii and Palau since 2021 due to coral reef toxicity. Evidence base. SCCS Opinion SCCS/1625/20 revised oxybenzone in 2021 – maximum concentration reduced from 10% to 6% in leave-on body products. In leave-on face products – up to 0.5%. Endocrine impact is under continued study. Safety. Contact allergies are relatively common – 1–3% in the general population, up to 5–10% in patients with prior fragrance sensitization. Systemic skin absorption is significant: Matta 2020 (JAMA) showed plasma levels above 0.5 ng/mL after a single application, exceeding the FDA threshold for systemic safety demonstration. Endocrine controversy. In vitro and animal studies show mild estrogenic and antiandrogenic activity. Epidemiology: association with endometriosis in women (Kunisue 2012) and reduced male fertility (Buck Louis 2014). The evidence is conflicting; the FDA and SCCS have not yet classified oxybenzone as an endocrine disruptor, but monitoring continues. Environmental controversy. Studies (Downs 2016, Schneider 2019) show oxybenzone toxicity to coral reefs at concentrations from 62 ppt – a major bleaching factor. Hawaii (since 2021), Palau (since 2020), US Virgin Islands, and Aruba have banned oxybenzone in sunscreens. Pregnancy and lactation – AVOID. Systemic absorption is documented, oxybenzone crosses the placenta and into breast milk (Schlumpf 2010). AAD 2023 and SEGO 2023 recommend mineral filters first-line. Alternatives – titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, Mexoryl SX/XL.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
ModeratePregnancy
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Oxybenzone is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
Oxybenzone suits: normal. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Oxybenzone has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Broad-spectrum UV filter, one of the oldest among chemical SPFs.
The INCI name is Benzophenone-3. It may also appear as: 2-Hydroxy-4-Methoxybenzophenone, Оксибензон.
Published: · updated:
Suitable for
Use with caution