BENZOPHENONE-4

Name / description

Benzophenone-4; Sulisobenzone; 5-Benzoyl-4-hydroxy-2-methoxybenzenesulphonic Acid

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Function(s) of this ingredient in cosmetic products

LIGHT STABILIZER

Protecting the cosmetic product from deterioration effects of light

UV ABSORBER

Protects the cosmetic product from damage caused by UV light

UV FILTER

Protects skin or hair from harmful UV radiation

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Origin

synthetic

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Occurrence in cosmetics

As a UV filter in sunscreens and other cosmetics with UV protection (care products, decorative cosmetics); as a UV absorber for the protection of eg fragrances, colourants and active ingredients in the product and also for the protection of plastic packaging

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Occurrence in other products

As a photo initiator in UV hardening applications (such as inks and coatings in the printing industry)

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Background information on use in cosmetics

Benzophenones are organic compounds from the group of ketones and aromatics. Benzophenone-3, benzophenone-4 and benzophenone-5 are approved as UV filters in sunscreens according to the EC Cosmetics Regulation. Benzophenone-4 is a soluble, organic UV-BB filter (broadband filter) which protects the skin against both UV-B and UV-A radiation. The maximum concentration of benzophenone-4 (as an acid) is 5 %. UV filters minimise the undesired effects of UV radiation on the skin and are, therefore, an important component of sunscreens. By protecting the skin against the dangerous sun radiation, they contribute towards preventing premature light-caused skin ageing and skin cancer. In this connection a distinction is made between soluble organic UV filters and those based on mineral and / or organic pigments. Whereas soluble organic UV filters absorb the UV radiation, transform it into heat and form an invisible protection shield in the upper skin layer, UV filters on the basis of pigments reflect, scatter and absorb the sun radiation already on the skin surface. Organic UV filters absorb the energy of the ultraviolet part of the light in the range from approximately 280 to 400 nm. In this connection the energy of the absorbed photon must correspond to the energy which is necessary to elevate the electron in the molecule of the filter substance from a low to a higher orbit. When the electron falls back to its original orbit, the absorbed energy is either given off as heat or as radiation of a longer wavelength and hence rendered harmless. The organic UV filters are distinguished, amongst others, by the position of the absorption area, the photostability, the solubility and the penetration capacity. Depending on the wave range of the ultraviolet radiation which is absorbed by the UV filter, a distinction is made between UV-A, UV-B and broadband filters.

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Information on safe use

In accordance with the EU Cosmetics Regulation [Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009], which applies to the entire EU market, UV filters are defined as substances which are exclusively or mainly intended to protect the skin against certain UV radiation by absorbing, reflecting or scattering UV radiation. Annex VI of the Regulation defines the substances which may be used in cosmetic products as UV filters. In this so-called positive list of the UV filters maximum concentrations are prescribed for the use of these substances in cosmetic products and, if necessary, additional conditions for use are defined. Prior to their approval in Annex VI, UV filters are examined selectively for their toxicological safety and subjected to comprehensive tests. The manufacturers must prove the health safety in extensive scientific studies. Moreover, the approved filters are re-assessed, if necessary on the basis of new scientific findings and in the event of possible conspicuous findings in market observation and the list is updated accordingly.

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Why are we talking about it?

Benzophenone-4 and benzophenone-5 belong to the family of benzophenones, which contains some structural analogues that are suspected of being endocrine disruptors. They are also suspected of polluting waters and endangering aquatic organisms. The facts: Benzophenone-5 is a derivative of benzophenone-4. They are therefore evaluated together. At the maximum concentrations authorised in cosmetics, the safety margins are much higher than the safety margin required by European experts to guarantee their safe use (over 60 times). Thus, to exceed the no-toxic dose (reference value), one would have to apply more than 1,000 tubes of sunscreen per day, every day (57 kg woman, 100 ml tube). European experts have decided to re-examine the potential endocrine activity of 28 substances suspected of being endocrine disruptors. Benzophenones-4 and -5, which belong to the benzophenone family, are included in this re-evaluation. Key points to take away: The European expert committee (SCCS) considers benzophenone-4 and benzophenone-5 as safe for human health in cosmetic products. In view of the health risks associated with sun exposure (photoaging, skin cancer), the use of sunscreen products and/or UV-protective clothing remains essential. As far as the environment is concerned, benzophenone-4 is poorly biodegradable but does not accumulate in the food chain. There are no data on benzophenone-5, which is rarely used in cosmetics.

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Further information

For the clarification of a suspicion of a contact allergy this substance can be routinely tested in the epicutaneous test at the dermatologist.

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Belongs to the following substance groups

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Regulating cosmetics

Cosmetics Ingredients are subject to regulation. Please note, different regulations may apply to cosmetic ingredients outside the EU.