Skincare Ingredient
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Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
In Skincare: Is Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, a synthetic ingredient approved for use worldwide, functions as a UVA filter in sunscreen formulations.
- 02
To ensure broad-spectrum protection, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane must be combined with ingredients that offer UVB defense.
- 03
Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane benefits from the inclusion of specific ingredients that enhance its stability when exposed to UV light.
- 04
Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane is among a group of UV filters currently undergoing more in-depth safety evaluations.
- 05
Also referred to as avobenzone or Parsol 1789, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane is a synthetic compound used in sunscreens.
Key Benefits
What Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Role of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
Active Cosmetic Mechanisms
LIGHT STABILIZER
UV Protector for ProductsProtects products from degradation caused by light exposure
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: Light stabilizers prevent photodegradation through UV absorbers that convert light energy to heat (benzophenones, benzotriazoles), radical scavengers (hindered amine light stabilizers), or quenchers that deactivate excited states. These protect photosensitive ingredients like fragrances, colors, and vitamins from degradation during storage. Mechanism involves absorbing UV radiation or scavenging photo-generated free radicals.
UV ABSORBER
UV Ray AbsorberAbsorbs ultraviolet radiation to protect product and skin
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: UV absorbers are organic compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it to harmless heat through molecular excitation and relaxation. Chemical UV filters include avobenzone (UVA), octinoxate (UVB), octocrylene (UVB), and newer broad-spectrum filters. Mechanism involves conjugated double bond systems absorbing photons, reaching excited state, then dissipating energy as heat while returning to ground state. Chromophore structure determines absorption spectrum. Photostability considerations important as some filters degrade under UV exposure.
UV FILTER
Sunscreen AgentBlocks or filters harmful UV radiation
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS
// Evidence: UV filters prevent UV light from reaching skin through absorption (chemical filters) or reflection/scattering (physical/mineral filters). Organic filters absorb UV converting to heat; inorganic filters (titanium dioxide, zinc oxide) reflect and scatter UV rays. Broad-spectrum protection covers UVB (290-320nm causing sunburn) and UVA (320-400nm causing aging). SPF measures UVB protection; PA rating or critical wavelength indicates UVA protection. Combination formulations optimize broad-spectrum protection. Must meet regulatory requirements varying by jurisdiction.
Products
containing Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
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References
Scientific sources
Photochemical and Photobiological Sciences, February 2021, pages 189–244; and January 2019, pages 198–207
JAMA, January 2020, pages 256–267
Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, December 2014, pages 35-43
Household and Personal Care Today, March/April 2014, pages 4-8
Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 2014, pages 36–40
Indian Journal of Dermatology, September/October 2012, pages 335-342
Similar Ingredients
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Frequently Asked Questions
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane — common questions
What is Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane in skincare?
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is a skincare ingredient commonly used in cosmetic formulations.
What does Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane do? / Functions of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane?
Common functions: LIGHT STABILIZER, UV ABSORBER, UV FILTER.
What is the comedogenic rating of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane? / Is Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane comedogenic?
The comedogenic rating of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane has not been established in our database.
Does it clog pores?
Whether Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane clogs pores depends on the formulation and concentration.
Is Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane safe for skin?
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane has a safety rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally considered safe for most skin types. Note: Avobenzone (UVA filter) is generally considered safe at regulated levels (CIR/EU/FDA); may cause mild irritation or occasional photoallergic/contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The Cosmetic I
Is Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane good for sensitive skin?
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane has an irritancy rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is generally well-tolerated.
What are the side effects of Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane in skincare?
Known considerations: Avobenzone (UVA filter) is generally considered safe at regulated levels (CIR/EU/FDA); may cause mild irritation or occasional photoallergic/contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has concluded it is safe for use in cosmetics as a sunscreen agent. Limited safety data is available for long-term or high-dose exposure.