Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is a clear, oil-soluble, "cosmetically-elegant" liquid that is the most commonly used chemical sunscreen agent. It is primarily used in sunscreens and other cosmetics to absorb UV-B rays from the sun, protecting the skin from damage. It is also used to reduce the appearance of scars. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate for use in sunscreens up to a concentration of 7.5% .
Positive:
- It is a clear, oil-soluble, "cosmetically-elegant" liquid.
- It is effective in absorbing UV-B rays from the sun.
- It is approved by the FDA for use in sunscreens up to a concentration of 7.5% .
- It is used to reduce the appearance of scars.
Negative:
- Some studies suggest that Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate may produce excess reactive oxygen species that can interfere with cellular signaling, cause mutations, and lead to cell death. This reaction may also be implicated in cardiovascular disease.
- It may have hormone-mimicking effects on laboratory animals and is found in humans, including mothers milk samples.
- It may damage human cell DNA when exposed to sun rays.
Ingredients or materials:
- Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate is the 2-ethylhexyl ester of para-methoxycinnamic acid.
- It is an ester formed from methoxycinnamic acid and 2-ethylhexanol.
- Its chemical formula is C18H26O3, corresponding to a molecular weight of 290.4 g/mol.
