API Octocrylene

Octocrylene More Info

1. Overview

Octocrylene is a versatile organic compound commonly utilized by formulators in the cosmetic and skincare industry. It serves as a key active ingredient in sunscreens and various other skincare products designed to provide effective protection against the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

2. Chemical Information

Common Names:

INCI Name: Octocrylene

Chemical Name: 2-Propenoic acid, 2-cyano-3,3-diphenyl-, 2-ethylhexyl ester

Other Chemical Names: 2-Ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenylacrylate

CAS Number: 6197-30-4

UNII: 5A68WGF6WM

The chemical structure features a central acrylate backbone with a cyano group (–CN) attached to the β-carbon, flanked by two phenyl rings on the α-carbon, forming a conjugated system that contributes to its UV-absorbing properties.

3. Physical Properties

Octocrylene appears as a thick colorless, viscous, oily liquid. It is an organic compound with excellent solubility in organic solvents. The compound is photostable, meaning SPF remains stable after exposure to light, and provides emollient benefits with skin-moisturizing effects.

4. Function & Benefits

UV Protection Properties:

Absorbs UVB rays and shorter UVA rays with wavelengths between 280-320 nm

Protects skin from direct DNA damage caused by UV radiation

Helps prevent sunburn and decreases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging

Efficient at neutralizing UV radiation emitted by sunlight

Additional Functions:

SPF Booster: Increases the overall sun protection factor of formulations

Photostabilizer: Improves the photostability of other sunscreens, particularly avobenzone

Water Resistant: Provides strong water-resistant properties, extending protection time

Emollient: Maintains skin moisture and provides a smooth texture

Preservative: Preserves natural chemical degradation that can occur when skincare products are exposed to sunlight

5. Applications

Octocrylene is used in a wide range of personal care products including:

Sunscreen Products:

Sunscreens with various SPF levels

Moisturizers with SPF

Lip balms with UV protection

Anti-aging products

Non-SPF Products:

Shampoos and conditioners

Hair sprays

Tanning oils

BB creams and CC creams

6. Usage Levels & Regulations

In the United States, the maximum approved concentration is 10%. The European Union also allows up to 10%. Globally, concentrations of 10-12% are commonly used.

Regulatory Status:

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for OTC sunscreen drugs

Approved by the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS)

Considered safe for use in concentrations up to 10%

7. Product Formulation Considerations

Advantages:

Excellent photostability

Broad-band UV absorption

Water-resistant properties

Can boost SPF in formulations

Compatible with other sunscreen ingredients

Improves cosmetic texture

Considerations:

Cost: This is an expensive ingredient

Allergic Reactions: Some studies indicate it may cause allergic reactions in skin with a history of photoallergy

Side Effects: Contact and photocontact allergies are possible

Degradation: May degrade to form benzophenone over time in some formulations

Combination: Works best when combined with avobenzone

8. Common Product Combinations

Octocrylene is frequently formulated with other active ingredients such as:

Avobenzone (3%)

Homosalate (15%)

Octisalate (5%)

Other chemical and physical UV filters

A typical SPF 50 product composition includes:

Avobenzone: 3%

Homosalate: 15%

Octisalate: 5%

Octocrylene: 8%

9. Safety & Warnings

General Precautions:

For external use only

Keep out of eyes

Do not use on damaged or broken skin

Flammable: Keep away from fire or flame

Store at temperatures below 120°F (49°C)

Sun Protection Recommendations:

Limit sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses

Reapply every 2 hours or after swimming/sweating

Children under 6 months: Consult a doctor before use

10. Market Information

As of March 2019, approximately 2,999 SPF products registered for sale in the United States contained octocrylene. It remains one of the 14 FDA-approved active ingredients for over-the-counter sunscreen drugs. Despite cost constraints, it continues to gain popularity among formulators.

11. Conclusion

Octocrylene remains one of the most widely used chemical sunscreen ingredients globally due to its photostability, broad-spectrum UV protection, water resistance, emollient properties, and compatibility with other UV filters. Its versatile functionality makes it a valuable ingredient for formulators creating high-quality sun protection and skincare products.