Back to library

Benzephenone-3

| [ben-ze-fi-ˈnōn, ˈthrē] |

Categories:
Sunscreen

Benzephenone-3 Skin Benefits:
UV protection

Benzephenone-3, also known as oxybenzone, is a sunscreen active that helps to protect the skin against harmful effects of exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Benzephenone-3 helps to prevent against sunburn and photo-damage that may lead to the formation of premature signs of aging (i.e, fine lines and wrinkles) as well as the loss of skin-elasticity and firmness. 1

While many sunscreen actives are more equipped in their ability to defend against UVB-radiation; benzephenone-3 caters more towards UVA absorption. As a result, cosmetic companies often include benzephenone-3 in sunscreen formulas to provide increased photo-protection and deter long-term photo-aging effects. 2

  1. Agrapidis-Paloympis, L. et al. The effect of solvents on the ultraviolet absorbance of sunscreens. J. Soc. Cosmet. Chem 38, 209-221 (1987)
  2. .Benson, H. Assessment and clinical implications of absorption of sunscreens across skin. American journal of clinical dermatology 1.4, 217-224 (2000)