Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3)
Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) is a UV filter in sunscreens and some other products. The EU limits its use. Concerns include hormone-like effects, photoallergy and harm to marine life.
What it is
It appears in sunscreens, lip balms and some other cosmetics, where it absorbs UV light. On labels it appears as benzophenone-3 or oxybenzone.
How IngrediScan rates it
These levels come from the fixed rules in the IngrediScan app. A low level means the rules found little or no concern for that profile. It does not mean the ingredient is safe for everyone.
| Profile | Skin (cosmetics) |
|---|---|
| Adult | High |
| Child | High |
| Infant | High |
| Dog | No concern found |
| Cat | No concern found |
The app flags skin use because of absorption through the skin, hormone-like signals, photoallergy and an environmental load.
Basis of the ratings: ban, limit or official classification.
Possible concerns: Endocrine-disrupting, Photosensitizer, Harmful to the environment.
The app's rationale (exact text)
- Adult (skin), Child (skin), Infant (skin): Annex VI/4 UV filter (Reg. 2022/1176 limits; SCCS/1625/20): systemic absorption plus endocrine signals, photoallergy and ecotoxic load; High.
Rules and use
Authorised UV filter in the EU, with maximum concentrations set in Annex VI of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. Regulation (EU) 2022/1176 revised the limits after an SCCS opinion.
Read the guide: How to read an ingredient label
Sources
- Reg. (EU) 2022/1176: certain UV filters in cosmetics
- SCCS: opinion on butylparaben, children's exposure
- SCCS 2021: opinion on octocrylene (SCCS/1627/21)
- SCCS 2021: opinion on homosalate (SCCS/1622/20)
- Endocrine and reproductive effects of sunscreen UV filters: review 2014-2024
- NCBI Bookshelf: NBK587278
Related ingredients
The assessment is for information only. It does not replace the manufacturer's label or advice from a doctor or vet. Text recognition (OCR) can miss part of a label. No result does not mean the product is safe.