Oxybenzone
(Redirected from Eusolex 4360)
Oxybenzone (chemical formula: C14H12O3), also known as benzophenone-3, is an organic compound used in sunscreens and other cosmetic products to absorb ultraviolet (UV) light. It is a member of the benzophenone family of chemicals and acts by absorbing UV radiation, thereby protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Despite its widespread use, oxybenzone has been the subject of controversy due to concerns over its environmental impact and potential health risks.
Properties and Uses[edit | edit source]
Oxybenzone is a pale-yellow solid that is soluble in most organic solvents. It primarily functions as a UV filter, absorbing UVB and short-wave UVA rays, which are known to cause sunburn and can contribute to skin aging and the development of skin cancer. Oxybenzone is found in a wide range of personal care products, including sunscreens, lip balms, and moisturizers, as well as in some plastics and furniture finishes as a UV stabilizer.
Health Concerns[edit | edit source]
Research has raised concerns about the safety of oxybenzone for both human health and the environment. Studies have suggested that oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream, where it may exhibit estrogenic activity and potentially interfere with the endocrine system. There is also evidence to suggest that oxybenzone may contribute to coral bleaching when washed off in the ocean, posing a threat to marine ecosystems.
Regulation and Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]
In response to these concerns, some regions have begun to regulate the use of oxybenzone in consumer products. For example, Hawaii and Palau have banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone to protect coral reefs. Consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives to oxybenzone, such as mineral-based sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as active ingredients.
Alternatives[edit | edit source]
Alternatives to oxybenzone include other chemical UV filters and physical sunblocks. Chemical filters, such as avobenzone and octocrylene, absorb UV radiation in a manner similar to oxybenzone but may have different safety profiles. Physical sunblocks, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, reflect and scatter UV radiation away from the skin. These alternatives are considered safer for sensitive skin and have a lower environmental impact.
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
While oxybenzone is effective at protecting the skin from UV radiation, its potential health risks and environmental impact have led to increased scrutiny and regulation. Consumers and manufacturers alike are exploring safer and more sustainable alternatives for UV protection.
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD