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Is Octocrylene Safe? What You Need to Know

4/10

Safety Score

Concern Level: high

Octocrylene has moderate safety concerns. Consider alternatives where possible, especially for vulnerable populations.

Common uses: sunscreen, anti-aging creams

What Is Octocrylene?

A UV filter that degrades into benzophenone, a suspected endocrine disruptor.

Commonly found in: sunscreen, anti-aging creams

Safety Research & Evidence

A UV filter that degrades into benzophenone, a suspected endocrine disruptor.

Regulatory status: FDA approved; EU under review; degradation to benzophenone discovered 2021

Health Concerns

benzophenone degradation product

Evidence: Moderate

Research indicates benzophenone degradation product may be associated with exposure to Octocrylene. Particularly concerning for children.

contact allergy

Evidence: Moderate

Research indicates contact allergy may be associated with exposure to Octocrylene. Particularly concerning for children.

aquatic toxicity

Evidence: Moderate

Research indicates aquatic toxicity may be associated with exposure to Octocrylene. Particularly concerning for children.

Vulnerable Populations

Extra caution recommended for: children

Safer Alternatives

AlternativeSafety Score
Zinc Oxide9/10

How to Avoid Octocrylene

  1. Read ingredient labels carefully for "Octocrylene" or its chemical synonyms
  2. Choose products with third-party certifications (EWG Verified, Made Safe)
  3. Consider alternatives like Zinc Oxide
  4. Check the EWG Skin Deep database for product ratings
  5. Look for "Octocrylene-free" labels on product packaging

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Octocrylene safe for babies?

No, we recommend avoiding Octocrylene in products used on or around babies due to their developing systems.

What are the safest alternatives to Octocrylene?

Safer alternatives include Zinc Oxide (safety score: 9/10).

Is Octocrylene banned in other countries?

Regulatory status: FDA approved; EU under review; degradation to benzophenone discovered 2021

How do I know if my product contains Octocrylene?

Check the full ingredient list on the product label. Octocrylene may also appear under different chemical names. Using apps like EWG Healthy Living or Think Dirty can help identify it.

Related Safety Guides

References

  1. Downs CA et al. (2021). Octocrylene degrades into benzophenone PMID: 33651845