Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate: UVB Filter for Sunscreens and Skincare

Technical Introduction

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (EHMC), also known as Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC) or Octinoxate, is an oil-soluble organic UV filter that absorbs primarily UVB radiation (280–320 nm). It is one of the most commonly used sunscreen agents worldwide, known for its efficiency, ease of formulation, and compatibility with a wide range of cosmetic products.

• Chemical Name: 2-Ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate

• INCI Name: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate)

• Molecular Formula: C₁₈H₂₆O₃

• Molecular Weight: 290.40 g/mol

• Appearance: Clear, colorless to pale yellow oily liquid

• Solubility: Soluble in oils, ethanol, and cosmetic esters; insoluble in water

• UV Absorption Maxima: ~310–312 nm

Applications

1. Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Sunscreens (lotions, sprays, gels) → Provides effective UVB protection.

• Daily skincare → Used in moisturizers, BB creams, and foundations with SPF.

• Lip care → Added to lip balms to prevent sunburn.

• Hair care → Protects hair color and structure from UV damage.

2. Formulation Uses

• Protects other cosmetic ingredients (fragrances, vitamins, natural extracts) from UV degradation.

• Commonly combined with UVA filters like Avobenzone for broad-spectrum protection.

✅ Advantages

• High UVB absorption efficiency → Excellent at preventing sunburn.

• Oil solubility → Easily incorporated into emulsions and anhydrous formulations.

• Low skin irritation → Well tolerated by most skin types.

• Versatile → Used in a wide variety of sun care and daily cosmetic products.

• Stabilizer for formulations → Protects sensitive ingredients from photodegradation.

⚙️ Technical Specifications (Cosmetic Grade)

⚠️ Safety & Regulatory Notes

• Regulatory limits:

  • EU: Approved up to 10% in cosmetic formulations.

  • USA (FDA): Approved up to 7.5% in sunscreens.

  • Japan & Asia-Pacific: Widely approved within similar limits.

• Safety concerns:

  • Reports of endocrine disruption potential in high concentrations (still under scientific review).

  • Marine environment impact: Considered a contributor to reef bleaching, leading to bans in Hawaii and Palau.

• Formulation note: Photostability is moderate; often combined with stabilizers like Octocrylene or Zinc Oxide.

❓ FAQ

Q1: Is Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate safe for skin?
Yes, it is generally safe at regulated concentrations, with very low irritation potential.

Q2: Does it protect against UVA?
No, it primarily absorbs UVB. For UVA coverage, it must be combined with other filters like Avobenzone or Tinosorb.

Q3: Why is it banned in some regions?
Due to potential reef toxicity and environmental impact, some coastal regions restrict or ban its use.

Q4: How stable is it under sun exposure?
It has moderate photostability, but combining it with stabilizers like Octocrylene significantly improves performance.

Q5: Can it be used in daily moisturizers and makeup?
Yes, it is one of the most common UV filters in day creams, BB creams, and foundations with SPF.