Skincare Ingredient
Save ingredients to your skin profile and we'll use them when you look up products — instantly flagging what's reactive, neutral, or works well for your skin.
Octocrylene
In Skincare: Is Octocrylene Safe? Comedogenic Rating & Side Effects
Safety Information
Quick Insights
At a glance
- 01
Octocrylene stabilizes avobenzone, a UVA filter, and is itself an approved UVB absorber.
- 02
While primarily providing UVB protection, octocrylene also offers some UVA screening capabilities.
- 03
Octocrylene is globally approved for use in cosmetic formulations at concentrations up to 10%, with Canada permitting up to 12%.
- 04
Octocrylene contributes an emollient texture that can help moisturize the skin.
- 05
Octocrylene demonstrates high stability when exposed to UV light.
Key Benefits
What Octocrylene does for your skin
Overview
Ingredient Profile
Data & Research
Scientific Facts
Common Uses
Formulation in Octocrylene
Role of Octocrylene
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 Octocrylene
One-step login · Made for your skin
Want analysis that actually fits your skin?
Sign in once — we'll remember your skin type and make every analysis more relevant for you. for free!
Joined by people who care about their skin
References
Scientific sources
Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Supplement 7, November 2019, pages 25–33
Environment International, November 2019, ePublication
Pharmaceutics, May 2017, pages 1–24
Contact Dermatitis, January 2018, pages 224–225; April 2014, pages 193-204; and January 2003, pages 46-47
Quimica Nova, July 2014, ePublication
Similar Ingredients
Ingredients with similar chemical profiles and skincare properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Octocrylene — common questions
What is Octocrylene in skincare?
Octocrylene is a chemical sunscreen ingredient used to absorb ultraviolet (UV) light.
What does Octocrylene do? / Functions of Octocrylene?
Common functions: LIGHT STABILIZER, UV ABSORBER, UV FILTER.
What is the comedogenic rating of Octocrylene? / Is Octocrylene comedogenic?
Octocrylene has a comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. A rating of 2 means it is unlikely to clog pores.
Does it clog pores?
Octocrylene is unlikely to clog pores (rating 2/5).
Is Octocrylene safe for skin?
Octocrylene has a safety rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 indicates moderate safety considerations. Note: May be present in trace amounts. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has determined that Octocrylene is safe in sunscreen formulations at concentrations up to 10%, but it should be used with caution
Is Octocrylene good for sensitive skin?
Octocrylene has an irritancy rating of 3 out of 5. A rating of 3 means it may cause mild irritation for some.
What are the side effects of Octocrylene in skincare?
Known considerations: May be present in trace amounts. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has determined that Octocrylene is safe in sunscreen formulations at concentrations up to 10%, but it should be used with caution in individuals with sensitive skin due to potential for irritation or allergic reactions. Additional risks: skin irritation (irritancy rating 3/5).