Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (INCI: ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE, CAS 5466-77-3), commonly known as Octinoxate, is one of the most widely used organic (chemical) UV filters in the world, primarily absorbing UVB radiation with peak absorption at approximately 311 nm. It is permitted in the EU at up to 10% (Annex VI entry 12) and in the US at up to 7.5% under the FDA OTC sunscreen monograph (Category III — insufficient data for GRASE). The SCCS Final Opinion (SCCS/1671/24, June 2025) confirmed that EHMC is safe when used as a UV filter at up to 10% in cosmetic products, with a sufficiently high margin of safety — while noting it exhibits endocrine activity (estrogenic and weak anti-androgenic) in laboratory studies, the SCCS concluded this does not pose a consumer risk at approved concentrations. Octinoxate has been banned in several jurisdictions (Hawaii, Palau, US Virgin Islands) due to evidence of coral reef damage. FDA maximal use studies (2019/2020) detected systemic absorption exceeding the 0.5 ng/mL threshold, though without established clinical harm. SkinSenseDiary safety rating: 5/10 (moderate risk). No allergen flags. No harmonised human health GHS classification (H315/H319/H335/H411 are supplier self-classification only). Found in 4,550 products.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (INCI: ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE, CAS 5466-77-3, EC 226-775-7) is a synthetic organic compound belonging to the cinnamate class of UV absorbers. It has a molecular weight of 290.40 Da and is an oil-soluble, clear to slightly yellow liquid at room temperature. First introduced as a sunscreen active ingredient in the 1970s, it has become one of the most common chemical UVB filters worldwide — appearing in 4,550 products in our database. It is commonly known by the US FDA name Octinoxate and by trade names including Parsol MCX, Eusolex 2292, and Uvinul MC 80.
As a chemical (organic) UV filter, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate works by absorbing UVB radiation (290–320 nm) with peak absorption at approximately 311 nm and converting the UV energy to heat through a photochemical process. Its UV-filtering action occurs within the sunscreen film and the upper layers of the skin (stratum corneum) — it does not need to enter the bloodstream to provide UV protection. However, systemic absorption does occur: FDA maximal use studies published in JAMA (2019, 2020) detected octinoxate in plasma at concentrations exceeding the FDA's 0.5 ng/mL threshold that triggers the need for additional non-clinical toxicology assessment. No clinical harm has been established from these systemic levels to date.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate has been under significant regulatory scrutiny in recent years. The SCCS Final Opinion (SCCS/1671/24, adopted June 2025) confirmed that EHMC is safe when used as a UV filter at up to 10% in cosmetic products, including for children, with a sufficiently high margin of safety. The opinion noted endocrine activity (estrogenic and weak anti-androgenic) in laboratory studies, but concluded this does not translate to consumer risk at approved concentrations — an important distinction between "endocrine-active" (detectable biological interaction) and "endocrine-disrupting" (proven adverse health effects). On the environmental front, octinoxate has been banned in Hawaii (effective 2021), Palau, the US Virgin Islands, and Key West (Florida) due to evidence of coral reef damage. The US FDA classifies it as Category III (insufficient data for GRASE status), while it remains fully permitted in the EU, Japan, Korea, and Australia at established concentrations.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is one of the most effective chemical UVB absorbers, with peak absorption at approximately 311 nm. UVB radiation is the primary cause of sunburn, direct DNA damage, and a major contributor to skin cancer risk. By absorbing UVB before it reaches living skin cells, octinoxate helps prevent erythema (sunburn) and contributes significantly to a product's SPF rating. It is typically combined with UVA filters (such as avobenzone or Tinosorb S) for complete broad-spectrum protection.
As an oil-soluble organic compound, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate dissolves into sunscreen formulations seamlessly, producing lightweight, non-greasy products with no visible white cast. This cosmetic elegance makes it appealing for daily-wear sunscreens, tinted moisturisers, and makeup products with SPF. It blends well under makeup and is particularly valued by consumers who find mineral sunscreens too heavy or white-casting for everyday use.
Octinoxate can be formulated into a wide range of cosmetic products — sunscreens, moisturisers, foundations, lip products, hair care products with UV protection, and anti-aging formulations. Its oil-soluble nature provides formulation flexibility, and it is compatible with most other UV filters (though it can destabilise avobenzone — see pairing guide below). This versatility has made it a staple ingredient in cosmetic product development worldwide.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is permitted as a UV filter in most major markets — EU (max 10%, Annex VI/12), US (max 7.5%, FDA OTC monograph), Japan, Korea, Australia, and many others. The SCCS confirmed its safety in 2025 (SCCS/1671/24). However, it is banned in several reef-protection jurisdictions (Hawaii, Palau, US Virgin Islands, Key West). This mixed regulatory status means consumers should check local regulations when travelling with octinoxate-containing sunscreens.
Suitable for: Most skin types, including normal, oily, and combination skin. Those with sensitive, reactive, or hormonally sensitive skin — or individuals concerned about endocrine-active compounds — may prefer mineral UV filters (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide) or newer organic filters without confirmed endocrine activity. Individuals who live in or travel to reef-protected areas should consider reef-safe alternatives.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate carries a SkinSenseDiary safety rating of 5/10 — moderate risk. It is permitted in the EU at up to 10% and in the US at up to 7.5%. The SCCS (2025) confirmed safety at approved concentrations but also confirmed endocrine activity (estrogenic + weak anti-androgenic). FDA Category III. Banned in several reef-protection jurisdictions. No allergen flags. No harmonised human health GHS classification (H315/H319/H335/H411 from supplier self-classification only). Found in 4,550 products.
Endocrine activity — confirmed by SCCS (2025): The SCCS Final Opinion (SCCS/1671/24) confirmed that Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is an endocrine-active substance with estrogenic activity and weak anti-androgenic activity, demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo studies. However, the SCCS concluded that the margin of safety at approved concentrations (up to 10%) is sufficiently high to mitigate consumer risk. It is important to distinguish between "endocrine-active" (interacts with the hormonal system) and "endocrine-disrupting" (causes adverse health effects through hormonal mechanisms) — the clinical significance at real-world sunscreen exposure levels remains an area of ongoing scientific investigation.
Systemic absorption — exceeds FDA safety threshold: Like other chemical UV filters, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate can be systemically absorbed. FDA maximal use studies (JAMA 2019, 2020) detected octinoxate in plasma at concentrations exceeding the 0.5 ng/mL threshold that triggers the requirement for additional non-clinical toxicology studies. Its UV-filtering action occurs in the sunscreen film and upper skin layers (stratum corneum), not through systemic absorption. Exceeding this threshold does not mean the ingredient is harmful — it means additional safety data are needed. No clinical harm has been established from these systemic levels to date.
Can destabilise Avobenzone: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is known to destabilise avobenzone (the primary chemical UVA filter) through a photochemical interaction that accelerates avobenzone's degradation under UV exposure. Modern sunscreen formulations that combine both ingredients typically include a photostabiliser (such as octocrylene) to mitigate this interaction. When choosing an octinoxate + avobenzone sunscreen, check that a stabiliser is present in the formula.
Environmental concerns — banned in reef-protection jurisdictions: Octinoxate has been banned in Hawaii (effective 1 January 2021), Palau, the US Virgin Islands, and Key West (Florida) due to research linking it to coral bleaching, reproductive damage in marine organisms, and disruption of coral larval development. It should be noted that most coral toxicity studies were conducted under controlled laboratory conditions at concentrations significantly higher than those typically found in the marine environment — real-world ecological impact is influenced by many factors, with climate change and ocean acidification being the primary drivers of coral decline. The GHS code H411 (toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects) appears in supplier self-classification data. If you swim frequently in coral reef areas, consider mineral sunscreen alternatives or protective clothing.
There is currently no human evidence that Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate at approved cosmetic concentrations causes harm during pregnancy. The SCCS (2025) deemed the margin of safety sufficient for the general population (including children), and there are no harmonised GHS reproductive or developmental toxicity codes (no H361d, no H362). That said, specific reproductive toxicity studies in pregnant humans have not been conducted, and the SCCS noted endocrine activity (estrogenic and weak anti-androgenic) in laboratory studies — which, while not indicating consumer risk at approved levels, leads some dermatologists to suggest that pregnant individuals who wish to minimise exposure to endocrine-active compounds may consider mineral sunscreen alternatives (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide in non-spray formats). FDA maximal use studies detected systemic absorption exceeding the 0.5 ng/mL threshold. Any sunscreen use is preferable to unprotected UV exposure during pregnancy — the risk of UV damage from not wearing sunscreen is well-established. Consult your healthcare provider for individualised advice.
Like other chemical UV filters, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate needs time to absorb into the skin and form an effective UV-absorbing layer. Apply your sunscreen at least 15–20 minutes before going outdoors. Use approximately 2 mg/cm² (about a teaspoon for the face) to achieve the labelled SPF protection. Under-application is the most common reason sunscreens fail to protect as expected.
Reapplication is essential for maintaining UV protection, particularly with chemical UV filters that degrade under UV exposure. Reapply every 2 hours during prolonged outdoor activity, and immediately after swimming, heavy sweating, or towel-drying. For office workers with minimal sun exposure, a morning application with a midday touch-up is generally sufficient.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate primarily absorbs UVB radiation (290–320 nm) and provides minimal UVA protection. For complete broad-spectrum coverage, ensure your sunscreen also contains a UVA filter — typically avobenzone, Tinosorb S, Tinosorb M, Mexoryl SX/XL, or Zinc Oxide. A sunscreen with only UVB filters will prevent sunburn but not protect against UVA-induced photoaging and deep skin damage.
If you travel to Hawaii, Palau, the US Virgin Islands, Key West, or parts of Mexico, be aware that octinoxate is banned in these jurisdictions for environmental protection. Pack a mineral sunscreen (Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide-based) or an octinoxate-free chemical sunscreen for these destinations. Airport/hotel gift shop sunscreens in reef-protected areas should already comply with local regulations.
Octinoxate combined with UVA filters for broad-spectrum protection. Lightweight, no white cast. SPF 30–50+ available. Check for a photostabiliser if paired with avobenzone.
Octinoxate in tinted moisturisers, BB creams, foundations, and lip products. Provides UVB protection with cosmetic coverage. Ensure SPF is 30+ for meaningful sun protection.
Octinoxate in water-resistant formulations for outdoor activities. Typically combined with octocrylene and other UVB/UVA filters. Reapply after 40 or 80 minutes of water exposure as labelled.
Commonly paired with octinoxate to provide additional UVB coverage and stabilise avobenzone when all three are used together. Well-established combination in commercial sunscreens.
Modern photostable broad-spectrum UV filters (widely used outside the US) that complement octinoxate's UVB coverage with strong UVA protection. Do not interact negatively with octinoxate.
Mineral UV filters can be combined with octinoxate for hybrid formulations offering both organic and inorganic UV coverage. Mineral filters are inherently photostable and do not destabilise other ingredients.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate can destabilise avobenzone through a photochemical interaction, accelerating avobenzone's UV-induced degradation and reducing UVA protection. When both are used together, a photostabiliser (octocrylene, Tinosorb S, or similar) must be present in the formula to mitigate this interaction. Check the ingredient list carefully.
While not a direct chemical incompatibility, retinoids increase skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. If using retinol products, ensure your octinoxate sunscreen provides adequate broad-spectrum protection (SPF 30+) and includes a UVA filter — octinoxate alone does not protect against UVA.
Chemical exfoliants (glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid) thin the outer skin layers, potentially increasing UV sensitivity and percutaneous absorption of sunscreen ingredients. This is not a reason to avoid the combination — rather, it reinforces the importance of thorough sunscreen application when using exfoliants.
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