• Efficient UVB absorber (280–320 nm)
• Oil-soluble and compatible with most emollients
• Stable in combination with other UV filters
• Improves photostability and extends SPF in formulations
• Used in sunscreens, lotions, BB creams, and lip balms

Octyl Methoxycinnamate – UVB Filter for Broad Spectrum Sun Protection

 Octyl Methoxycinnamate, also known as Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, is one of the most widely used chemical UVB filters in cosmetic formulations. It absorbs UVB rays (up to 310 nm), thereby protecting the skin from sunburn and premature aging. OMC is oil-soluble, making it ideal for water-resistant sunscreens, BB creams, foundations, and lip balms. Although it does not provide UVA protection, it is often paired with other filters like Avobenzone for broad-spectrum efficacy. Its excellent solvency and low viscosity make it compatible with oils, silicones, and waxes.

INCI Name: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate

CAS Number: 5466-77-3

Solubility: Oil-soluble

Add Phase: Oil phase (heated)

pH Stability: Stable in range 4–8

Processing Temperature: 70–85°C

Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid

Odor: Mild characteristic odor

Molecular Formula: C18H26O3

Molecular Weight: 290.4 g/mol

Flash Point: ~160°C

Density: ~1.01 g/cm³

Chemical Type: UVB Filter / Organic sunscreen agent

Functional Groups: Ester, Aromatic ring

Primary Cosmetic Uses: Sunscreens, moisturizers with SPF, foundations, lip balms, day creams

• Usage Rate: 2% – 7.5%
• Phase: Add to oil phase during heating
• Ideal For: Sunscreens, SPF lotions, makeup with UV protection

☀️ For optimal SPF synergy, combine Octyl Methoxycinnamate with Avobenzone (UVA) and Octocrylene (stabilizer). Always use antioxidants like Vitamin E to prevent photo-degradation of the filter.

✔️ Suitable for normal, dry, and combination skin

✔️ Safe in recommended limits for daily use

❗ Not ideal alone for sensitive skin – combine with anti-irritants or mineral filters

1. Lightweight SPF Cream

Use 5% OMC with Avobenzone and Octocrylene to create a non-greasy sunscreen base.

2. BB Cream with Sun Protection

Incorporate into oil phase with iron oxides and silicones for tinted day creams.

3. SPF Lip Balm

Add 3–5% to anhydrous lip balm base for daily UVB protection.

4. SPF Hair Mist or Conditioner

Protect hair strands from UV damage by including in leave-in sun care products.

5. Sports Sunscreen Lotion

Combine with film-formers for long-lasting and water-resistant sunblock.

Serums
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Only suitable in oil-based SPF serums.



Creams & Lotions
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent
🟩🟩🟩🟩🟩 – Ideal for daily moisturizers with SPF.



Toners
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not compatible with water-only systems.



Face Masks
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Useful in peel-off or SPF sleeping masks.



Cleansers
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Not used in cleansing products.



Hair Masks
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Adds UV protection to sun-exposed hair products.



Deodorants
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟧⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Rarely used in this category.



Eye Creams
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Use with caution near eyes due to potential irritation.



Shampoos
⭐☆☆☆☆ – Poor
🟧⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Limited use in sun care lines.



Soaps
☆☆☆☆☆ – Not Suitable
🟥⬜⬜⬜⬜ – Washed off too quickly to be effective.



Conditioners
⭐⭐⭐☆☆ – Moderate
🟧🟧🟧⬜⬜ – Useful in leave-in UV shield conditioners.



Lip Balms
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Excellent for UV-protective lip care.



Body Butters
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ – Good
🟩🟩🟩🟩⬜ – Adds SPF value to rich moisturizers.



Ointments
⭐⭐☆☆☆ – Fair
🟧🟧⬜⬜⬜ – Occasionally used in protective topical balms.

Q1: What type of sun protection does Octyl Methoxycinnamate offer?

A1: It offers strong UVB protection (280–320 nm) but no UVA protection. Must be paired with a UVA filter for broad-spectrum coverage.

Q2: Is it safe to use daily?

A2: Yes, it’s approved up to 7.5% in leave-on cosmetics by most global regulations.

Q3: Can it be used in water-based products?

A3: No, it’s oil-soluble only and should be added to the heated oil phase of emulsions.