HOMOSALATE

Name / description

Homosalate; 3,3,5-Trimethylcyclohexyl 2-Hydroxybenzoate

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Function(s) of this ingredient in cosmetic products

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)

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Background information on use in cosmetics

Homosalate is a soluble organic UV-B filter. It absorbs UV-B radiation from approximately 280 to 320 nm. The maximum concentration of homosalate is 7.3 %. 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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Links to scientific assessments

Opinion of the SCCS (2021) on the safety as cosmetic ingredient

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Why are we talking about it?

Homosalate is suspected of being an endocrine disruptor. It is also suspected of polluting surface waters and of endangering aquatic organisms. The facts: According to in vitro studies, Homosalate appears to affect the hormonal balance of estrogens and androgens. The European experts have decided to re-examine the potential endocrine activity of 28 substances suspected of being endocrine disruptors and homosalate was part of this re-evaluation. The analysed data provide some indications of potential endocrine effects but there is no solid in vivo evidence of these activities; the level of evidence is therefore insufficient to consider Homosalate an endocrine disruptor (1). Key points to take away: Current data do not show an endocrine disrupting effect in vivo. The use of homosalate in cosmetic products is therefore considered to be safe for human health, with well-regulated concentrations in face products (2). 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, homosalate is rapidly biodegradable and does not accumulate in fish. Sources: (1) Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety: Opinion SCCS/1622/20 (2) Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety: Opinion SCCS/1638/21

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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.