METHYLENE BIS-BENZOTRIAZOLYL TETRAMETHYLBUTYLPHENOL (NANO)

Name / description

2,2'-Methylene-bis-(6-(2H-benzotriazol-2-yl)-4-(1,1,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)phenol), MBBT (nano); Bisoctrizol

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Function(s) of this ingredient in cosmetic products

UV FILTER

Protects skin or hair from harmful UV radiation

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Origin

synthetic

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Occurrence in cosmetics

Above all as UV filter pigment in sunscreens as well as in various skincare products with UV protection, eg day creams

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Background information on use in cosmetics

METHYLENE BIS-BENZOTRIAZOLYL TETRAMETHYLBUTYLPHENOL (NANO), abbreviation MBBT, is an organic solid (yellowish powder). Nano-MBBT is available on the market in the form of a colourless aqueous dispersion. MBBT is practically insoluble in water and soluble to a limited extent in cosmetic oils. The maximum concentration of MBBT is 10 %. Nano-MBBT is deposited as a protecting film on the upper skin layer and scatters, reflects and absorbs the UV radiation of the sun. In this way the skin is protected against UV radiation and its health damaging effects (sunburn, DNA damage, skin ageing etc). Nano-MBBT is a so-called broadband UV filter with a clear filter effect including in the long chain UV-A range. Nanoscale MBBT in sunscreens is invisible for the human eye and hence does not leave any whitish film on the skin which motivates consumers to make a more generous application. Nano-MBBT is, moreover, characterised by a particularly effective UV light filtration in a broad spectrum. 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.

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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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Links to scientific assessments

Opinion of the SCCS (2015, especially on the nano-scale form)

Opinion of the SCCS (2013, especially on the nano-scale form)

Opinion of the SCCNFP (1999)

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Why are we talking about it?

Nanoparticulate (nano) forms are a concern for consumers. The facts: Even though their very small size may lead to believe that nanoparticles can get everywhere, this is not the case, at least not through the skin. This is because the skin functions as a barrier to the outside environment. Studies show that the skin penetration of MBBT in nano form is negligible (1). Therefore, to exceed the no-effect dose, one would have to apply 2,850 bottles of sunscreen lotion per day every day (57 kg woman, average weight). On the other hand however, as with all nanoparticles, MBBT is prohibited in cosmetic products that could lead to inhalation (sprays, loose powders). Key points to take away: As MBBT in nano form is hardly absorbed by the skin, its use in cosmetic products on healthy and intact skin is considered safe (2). Sources: (1) Opinions of the European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety SCCS/1460/11 and SCCS 1546/15: https://ec.europa.eu/health/sites/health/files/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_129.pdf and https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_168.pdf (2) Cosmetic Products Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009; Annex VI

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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.