AvoidSyntheticsunscreenhormone disruptor

Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)

CAS 131-57-7 · C₁₄H₁₂O₃ · benzophenone-3 · bp-3 · oxybenzone

Chemical UV filter that penetrates the skin and bloodstream. Studies link it to hormone disruption and coral reef damage.

high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026
  • Detected in blood, urine, and breast milk (FDA 2019)
  • Endocrine disruption in animal studies
  • Coral reef bleaching — Hawaii and Palau banned it
  • Photoallergic reactions
  • Hawaii banned in sunscreen (2021) — coral reef damage
  • Palau banned (2019)
  • FDA proposed removing from GRASE sunscreen list (2019)
Chemical sunscreensSPF moisturizersSPF lip balmAfter-sun products

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.

Check another ingredient

Search our database of scored cosmetic, food, and household ingredients — or scan a full product label.

Open the Ingredient Lab

Safer swaps · Research references

Thinksport

Thinksport SPF 50+

94/100

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.

Zinc oxide 20%Sunflower seed oilShea butter
View product

Pipette

Pipette Mineral SPF 50

89/100

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.

Zinc oxide 20%SqualaneBisabolol
View product

Embed this verdict

LabelCleared verdict badge: Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) — Avoid
<a href="https://labelcleared.com/lab/oxybenzone"><img src="https://labelcleared.com/embed/oxybenzone/badge.svg" alt="LabelCleared verdict badge: Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) — Avoid" height="34"></a>