Chemical sunscreen ingredients can be confusing and hard to pronounce. If you're wondering whether octinoxate is safe, this guide will clarify. We'll explore:
- Is Octinoxate Safe for Humans?
- Is Octinoxate Safe for Reefs?
Let’s dive in.
What is Octinoxate?
Octinoxate is a common active ingredient in chemical sunscreens, designed to absorb UVB rays, primarily responsible for sunburn and superficial skin damage. However, because it only protects against UVB rays, it's often combined with other chemicals like avobenzone (a UVA filter) to offer broad spectrum protection. Sunscreen makers then add stabilizers such as octocrylene to prevent avobenzone from breaking down in sunlight.
Also known as Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC), octinoxate is created by mixing sulfuric acid with methanol, a petroleum by-product. Its oil-soluble properties make it fat-seeking in the body. This ingredient has been widely used since the 1950s.
When reviewing skincare labels, octinoxate may also appear under names like ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, escalol, or neo heliopan.
EWG Rating: 5 (1 best, 10 worst)
Unlike mineral sunscreens that sit on the skin's surface, octinoxate absorbs into the skin and enters the bloodstream. It's a cheap ingredient, often used to lower production costs, but at what expense to human and environmental health?
We recommend avoiding octinoxate in sunscreens and skin care products, especially for children, adults, and pregnant women.
Is Octinoxate Safe for Humans?
Research indicates octinoxate is an endocrine disruptor. It mimics estrogen in the body, similar to oxybenzone, and can interfere with thyroid function. Additionally, studies link octinoxate to harmful effects on reproductive organ development in male and female fetuses, with potential impacts passed to future generations. Some individuals also report that octinoxate may contribute to acne.
The chemical's ability to disrupt the body's endocrine system raises alarms about its widespread use in sunscreens, including this ingredient. These risks affect everyone, regardless of age or gender. Despite concerns, octinoxate remains approved for use worldwide. In the U.S., the FDA allows it at concentrations of up to 7.5%, the maximum concentration permitted.
In light of these risks, many health-conscious consumers are turning to mineral-based sunscreens that provide effective UV protection without harmful side effects.
Is Octinoxate Safe for Reefs?
When sunscreens containing octinoxate wash off in pools, oceans, or showers, the chemical enters water systems, contributing to environmental pollution. This can cause significant disruptions to marine life and ecosystems. Octinoxate's presence in water systems, particularly around coral reefs, has been linked to coral bleaching and damage to aquatic organisms.
Animal studies have shown octinoxate damages coral reefs, leading to bleaching and death. Coral reefs are vital to marine biodiversity and act as natural barriers against ocean storms. In response, locations like Hawaii have banned the sale of sunscreens, including octinoxate and oxybenzone, to protect fragile marine ecosystems.
Choosing sunscreens free of octinoxate and other harmful chemicals can help reduce the environmental impact while ensuring broad-spectrum protection. Look for alternatives that use safe and effective UV filters, like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.
NEXT STEPS
1. Know your ingredients — Review your sunscreen bottle and read the ingredient list. Understanding the difference between harmful chemicals and safe options is essential for both your skin and the planet.
2. Buy safe sunscreen — Waxhead only uses safe, effective ingredients like non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad spectrum protection. These ingredients protect against UVA and UVB rays and safeguard your health and the environment. Shop Safe Sunscreen here.
3. Spread awareness — Share this information with friends and family who might still be using sunscreens with questionable ingredients. Together, we can promote healthier choices.
By making informed decisions about sunscreen, you can protect your skin, support environmental health, and contribute to preserving marine ecosystems. A small change in your daily routine can greatly impact future generations.
Other Sources
https://www.safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/chemicals-of-concern/octinoxate
https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/704203-OCTINOXATE
