Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

Rating: Best
Benefits: Anti-Aging
Categories: UV Filters

 

 

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane at a Glance

Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, commonly known as avobenzone or Parsol 1789, is a synthetic UVA filter that provides comprehensive sun protection. It's widely recognized for its efficacy in shielding the skin from the harmful effects of UVA radiation, which is known to penetrate deeply and contribute significantly to premature skin aging.

 

 

Chemical Composition and Benefits

Chemical Formula: C20H22O3

Primary Function: Avobenzone absorbs UVA rays, which helps to prevent damage such as premature aging and pigmentation.

Avobenzone's ability to absorb a wide range of UVA wavelengths makes it an effective ingredient in preventing sun-induced skin damage. Here's how it works:

Absorption Spectrum: Avobenzone effectively absorbs UVA rays in the range of 320–400 nm, which is crucial for preventing UVA-related skin damage.

Stability Challenges: Research has shown that avobenzone can degrade when exposed to UV light. To address this, it is often combined with stabilizing agents like octocrylene (C20H26O2), diethylhexyl 2,6-napththalate (C20H28O4), and antioxidants like vitamin E (tocopherol) to enhance its photostability.

 

 

Application in Skincare

Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane is primarily used in:

Sunscreens: Often included in formulations to provide broad-spectrum UVA protection. In the U.S., it is allowed at concentrations up to 3% in over-the-counter sunscreens. The European Union permits up to 5% concentration.

Anti-Aging Products: Given its role in preventing UVA-induced damage, avobenzone is frequently found in anti-aging formulations aimed at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

 

Stability and Usage

To ensure the effectiveness of avobenzone, it is often combined with stabilizers and other UV filters:

Stabilizers: Octocrylene and ethylhexyl methoxycrylene enhance stability and reduce degradation.

Antioxidants: Vitamin E and other antioxidants help protect avobenzone from oxidative damage.

Packaging Recommendations: Products containing avobenzone should be stored in opaque, air-tight containers to minimize exposure to light and air, which can degrade the ingredient.

 

 

Regulatory Status

Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane has undergone extensive safety evaluations:

FDA Approval: Approved for use in sunscreens in the U.S. since 1996, with ongoing safety assessments focusing on systemic absorption and potential long-term effects. The ingredient is currently under further review by the FDA to better understand its safety profile.

International Standards: It is widely accepted and utilized in sunscreens across Europe and many other regions globally.

For more detailed safety information and current status, refer to the FDA's Sunscreen Ingredients and Safety Review: FDA Sunscreen Information.

 

 

Conclusion

Butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane, or avobenzone, is a critical component of modern sunscreens due to its broad-spectrum UVA protection. While it does require careful formulation to maintain its efficacy, its role in preventing sun-induced skin damage and aging is invaluable.