Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

Best

UV filter

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane at a glance

  • A globally approved synthetic UVA filter
  • Must be used with sunscreen ingredients that provide UVB protection
  • Requires special ingredients to improve stability in the presence of UV light
  • Is one of several UV filters undergoing more detailed safety assessments
  • Also known as avobenzone and Parsol 1789

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane description

Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane is a synthetic sunscreen ingredient that provides sun protection in the UVA range. This type of radiation is present all day long, and penetrates deeply into skin, where it causes a cascade of damage that leads to many signs of ageing. Better known as avobenzone, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane is globally approved. In fact, it’s one of the most widely used UVA filters in the world and has been rigorously tested for safety and efficacy, with further safety studies ongoing. In the United States, it may be used as an over-the-counter sunscreen active up to 3%. Its maximum permitted concentration extends to 5% within the European Union, where it’s been in use since 1978 (it was FDA-approved in 1996). Many studies have shown that avobenzone becomes unstable when exposed to UV light, one reason reapplication during long periods of time outdoors is necessary. To increase its photostability, UV absorbers such as octocrylene and non-UV filters (e.g., diethylhexyl 2, 6-napththalate) often accompany avobenzone in a sunscreen formula. Synthetic and natural antioxidants (such as vitamin E ubiquinone, glutathione, and diethylhexyl syringylidenemalonate) have can also improve avobenzone’s photostability, as can the proper choice of emollients, one example being caprylic/capric triglyceride. Other ingredients used to stabilise avobenzone and allow it to be used with other filters such as octinoxate include polyester-8 and ethylhexyl methoxycrylene. Avobenzone is one of several sunscreen ingredients currently undergoing further safety testing under the purview of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This testing is to gain a better understanding of the systemic absorption, metabolism, and elimination of these sunscreen actives when small amounts enter the body via topical use. It’s important to know that the presence of this or other sunscreen actives in the body does not mean your health is at risk. It is anticipated that the additional testing being done will reaffirm the safety of these ingredients; however, those who remain concerned can choose sunscreens with mineral actives (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) which are not included in the FDA’s new call for additional testing. Note: this UV filter is also known as Parsol 1789, but avobenzone is the official name when used in sunscreens.

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane references

  • 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

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.