Octocrylene (8.00%)
Octocrylene is an oil-soluble chemical sunscreen agent (CAS #6197-30-4) that absorbs UV radiation primarily in the UVB range and partially in the UVA II range, with a peak absorption of 304 nm. It is a substituted acrylate ester (2-Cyano-3,3-Diphenyl Acrylic Acid 2-Ethylhexyl Ester) and is listed under Cosmetic Restriction VI/10. On its own its UV protection is not considered sufficient, but it is notably photostable, losing only ~10% of SPF protection over 95 minutes. It is commonly combined with other UV filters to stabilize photo-unstable agents such as Avobenzone and to improve product water resistance.
Octocrylene provides UVB and partial UVA II protection and is valued primarily for its photostabilizing effect on other UV filters, particularly Avobenzone. It also contributes to the water resistance of sunscreen formulations. Its safety profile is generally considered good for most adults.
A review in Contact Dermatitis reports an increasing number of patients with photo contact allergy to octocrylene, particularly adults with ketoprofen sensitivity and children with sensitive skin. Octocrylene-free sunscreens are recommended for young children or those with known ketoprofen sensitivity.
