• Absorbs long-wave UV-A radiation (320–400 nm)
• Prevents sun-induced aging and pigmentation
• Ideal for daily sunscreens, BB creams, and anti-aging formulas
• Oil-soluble and compatible with many emollients
• Often used with stabilizers like Octocrylene for enhanced performance

Avobenzone – Broad Spectrum UV-A Filter for Sunscreen Formulations

 Avobenzone, also known as Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, is one of the most effective UV-A filters used in modern cosmetic sunscreen formulations. It offers broad-spectrum protection, especially against aging and DNA-damaging rays that penetrate deeper into the skin. Unlike UV-B blockers that prevent burning, Avobenzone protects against skin aging, dark spots, and photo-induced collagen breakdown. It’s highly effective when combined with stabilizers such as Octocrylene or Encapsulation Agents.

INCI Name: Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

CAS Number: 70356-09-1

Solubility: Oil-soluble

Add Phase: Cool-down oil phase

pH Stability: 3.5 – 7.0 (requires stabilizers)

Processing Temperature: < 60°C

Appearance: Yellow crystalline powder

Odor: Mild, chemical

Molecular Formula: C20H22O3

Molecular Weight: 310.39 g/mol

Flash Point: > 100°C

Density: ~1.08 g/cm³

Chemical Type: Organic UV filter

Functional Groups: Aryl ketone

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Sunscreens, BB creams, anti-aging moisturizers, makeup with SPF

• Usage Rate: 1% – 3%
• Phase: Add to cool-down oil phase
• Ideal For: Sunscreens, Day Creams, SPF Serums, Tinted Moisturizers

☀️ Always combine Avobenzone with photostabilizers like Octocrylene or Encapsulation Systems to maintain UV-A protection for extended sun exposure.

✔️ Suitable for all skin types

✔️ Ideal for aging, sun-sensitive, and hyperpigmented skin

✔️ Avoid in damaged or broken skin unless prescribed

1. Broad Spectrum SPF Cream

Use 2% Avobenzone with 6% Octocrylene in a daily cream for full UV-A/UV-B protection.

2. Tinted Sunscreen Lotion

Add to tinted emulsion bases for BB/CC creams with built-in sun defense.

3. Anti-Aging Day Serum with SPF

Combine 1% with Niacinamide and Vitamin E in an oil-soluble serum for wrinkle protection.

4. Sunscreen Stick or Balm

Use in waxy oil-based balms for targeted sun protection on lips or cheeks.

5. Waterproof Sunscreen Gel

Formulate with film-formers and stabilizers to ensure sweat-proof UV-A shielding.

Serums
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Ideal for SPF serums in oil bases.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Widely used in sun care and day creams.



Toners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Oil-soluble; not usable in water-based toners.



Face Masks
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Not common; may be used in overnight masks.



Cleansers
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not compatible with rinse-off formats.



Hair Masks
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in haircare.



Deodorants
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – No functional benefit.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Excellent for anti-aging eye creams with SPF.



Shampoos
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – No application in shampoos.



Soaps
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in wash-off products.



Conditioners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – No cosmetic relevance.



Lip Balms
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Used in SPF lip care and sticks.



Body Butters
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Can be included for daytime SPF body butters.



Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – May be used in sun care ointments with zinc.

Q1: Is Avobenzone a physical or chemical filter?

A1: It is a chemical (organic) sunscreen agent that absorbs UV-A rays.

Q2: Is it safe for sensitive skin?

A2: Yes, but always use within approved limits (≤3%) and pair with stabilizers to avoid degradation.

Q3: Can it be used alone?

A3: It should always be combined with other filters and stabilizers for full-spectrum sun protection.