Octocrylene
2-ethylhexyl 2-cyano-3,3-diphenyl acrylate · uvinul n 539 · parsol 340
A chemical UV-B and short UV-A filter widely used in sunscreens. Systemic absorption occurs at levels roughly 14× the FDA safety threshold, and octocrylene degrades over time into benzophenone — a suspected endocrine disruptor found in human blood samples.
Concerns
- Systemic absorption ~14× FDA safety threshold (0.5 ng/mL) [Inference]
- Degrades into benzophenone, a suspected endocrine disruptor
- Detected as an aquatic pollutant in water systems globally
- Rare cases of allergic contact and photoallergic dermatitis
Regulatory flags
- ⚑Detected in breast milk and blood
- ⚑EU restricts — max 9% in rinse-off and leave-on products
- ⚑Hawaii banned in sunscreen (2021)
Commonly found in
Safer swaps we'd look at
Thinksport
Thinksport SPF 50+
The cleanest mineral sunscreen we've found. Zero hormone disruptors.
Why it's cleaner
No flagged ingredients in our current review; key ingredients include Zinc oxide 20%, Sunflower seed oil, Shea butter.
Pipette
Pipette Mineral SPF 50
Sheer mineral SPF designed for sensitive skin.
Why it's cleaner
No flagged ingredients in our current review; key ingredients include Zinc oxide 20%, Squalane, Bisabolol.
Sources & references
Last researched: April 18, 2026
Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.
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