Octinoxate
Sun ProtectionAlso known as: Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Octyl Methoxycinnamate, OMC
A widely used chemical UVB filter. Lightweight and cosmetically elegant but has faced environmental scrutiny.
Routine placement
Sunscreen · AM
Time to results
Immediate UV protection upon application
UVB protection, lightweight texture, cosmetically elegant, widely available.
Apply as part of sunscreen. Reapply every 2 hours.
Effective UVB filter with decades of use. Environmental concerns led to bans in some regions. FDA has requested additional safety data.
- coral reef-sensitive areas
Cautions
Banned in Hawaii and Key West due to coral reef concerns. Potential endocrine disruption at high doses in animal studies. Can destabilize avobenzone.
What does Octinoxate do for skin?
Octinoxate is used in skincare primarily as a sun protection ingredient. Its effects depend on concentration and formulation. Check the benefits section above for specific details.
Is Octinoxate safe for sensitive skin?
Octinoxate is generally well-tolerated, but sensitivity varies by individual. Start with a patch test if you have reactive skin, and introduce gradually into your routine.
Can I use Octinoxate every day?
For most skin types, daily use is appropriate at standard concentrations. If you experience any irritation, reduce frequency to every other day.
Does your skincare contain Octinoxate?
Paste your product's ingredient list to check, or create your Skinularity ID for a full routine.
Find Octinoxate products
Browse skincare products containing Octinoxate.
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