What is "BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE" and what does it do?

Role: Organic UV filter

Family: AVOBENZONE,Old UV filter UVA SHORT, UVA LONG

Comedogenic index: 0

Avobenzone is a highly unstable UVA filter, losing up to a third of its protective efficacy after just one hour's exposure to the sun. This is one of the reasons why sunscreens need to be reapplied after a few hours, especially when your sunscreen contains unstable filters. However, Avobenzone's stability can be improved by adding ingredients that strengthen its resistance.

It is possible to be allergic to this sunscreen.

It is the only organic sunscreen in the U.S. offering adequate UVA protection (in the U.S., new sunscreen agents are not approved due to FDA regulations). It is the world standard in UVA protection and the most widely used UVA sunscreen in the world. It offers very good protection across the entire UVA range (310-400 nm, i.e. both UVA1 and UVA2), with maximum protection at 360 nm.

Numerous studies have shown that Avobenzone becomes unstable when exposed to UV light, which is why it is necessary to reapply sunscreen frequently outdoors. To increase its photostability, other UV filters such as octocrylene or octinoxate are often used. Synthetic and natural antioxidants can also improve the photostability of Avobenzone, as can certain emollients.

Avobenzone is currently undergoing further safety testing under the aegis of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These tests aim to better understand the systemic absorption, metabolism and elimination of these sunscreen active ingredients when a small amount enters the body topically.

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