Benzophenone-3: Broad-Spectrum UV Absorber for Sunscreens and Personal Care

Technical Introduction

Benzophenone-3 (BP-3), also known as Oxybenzone, is an organic aromatic ketone and broad-spectrum ultraviolet (UV) filter. It absorbs both UVB (280–320 nm) and part of UVA (320–400 nm) radiation, protecting skin and cosmetic formulations from photodamage.

Chemically, it belongs to the benzophenone class, which features two aromatic rings linked by a carbonyl group. This structure enables it to absorb high-energy UV photons and release them as lower-energy heat, thus preventing UV-induced DNA damage, photoaging, and skin cancer.

• Chemical Name: 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone

• INCI Name: Benzophenone-3 / Oxybenzone

• Molecular Formula: C₁₄H₁₂O₃

• Molecular Weight: 228.25 g/mol

• Appearance: Pale yellow crystalline powder

• Solubility: Soluble in ethanol, isopropanol, and oils; low solubility in water

• UV Absorption Maxima: ~288 nm and 325 nm

Applications

1. Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Sunscreens (lotions, sprays, gels) → Provides UVB + partial UVA protection.

• Daily skincare products → Incorporated into moisturizers, BB creams, and foundations for added UV defense.

• Haircare products → Prevents UV-induced hair color fading.

• Lip balms & lipsticks → Protects sensitive lip skin from UV exposure.

2. Industrial Applications

• Plastic and polymer stabilizer → Prevents degradation from UV light.

• Coatings & paints → Enhances weather resistance.

✅ Advantages

• Broad-spectrum coverage → Effective against UVB and part of UVA.

• Photostable → Remains active under sun exposure when combined with stabilizers.

• Versatile solubility → Compatible with many oil phases in formulations.

• Skin protection → Prevents sunburn, premature aging, and pigmentation.

• Formulation stabilizer → Protects fragrance, dyes, and other actives from photodegradation.

⚙️ Technical Specifications (Cosmetic Grade)

⚠️ Safety & Regulatory Notes

• Global regulations:

  • EU: Allowed up to 6% in cosmetic products.

  • USA (FDA): Approved up to 6% in sunscreens.

  • Japan: Approved with restrictions.

• Safety concerns: Some studies suggest endocrine disruption potential and reef toxicity, leading to bans in Hawaii, Palau, and certain regions.

• Formulation note: Often combined with other filters (Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Zinc Oxide) for enhanced spectrum and stability.

❓ FAQ

Q1: Is Benzophenone-3 safe for human skin?
At regulated concentrations, it is considered safe and effective. Concerns mainly arise from systemic absorption and ecological impact.

Q2: Why is Benzophenone-3 being restricted in some areas?
Due to evidence of reef bleaching and marine toxicity, some regions restrict or ban its use in sunscreens.

Q3: Can it be replaced by safer alternatives?
Yes, newer UV filters such as Tinosorb® S/M or mineral filters (ZnO, TiO₂) are often used as alternatives.

Q4: Does Benzophenone-3 protect against UVA?
It offers partial UVA protection, but is usually combined with stronger UVA filters like Avobenzone.

Q5: Is it stable under sunlight?
Moderately photostable, but works best in blends with stabilizers such as Octocrylene.