What is "BENZYLIDENE CAMPHOR SULFONIC ACID" and what does it do?

Role: Organic UV filter

Family: MEXORYL SL,Recent UV filter UVB

Comedogenic index: 0

In Europe, Benzylidene Camphor Sulfonic Acid (MEXORYL SL) is recognized as a UV filter, which means that it is permitted in suncare products designed to protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation. Here, sunscreen products are categorized as cosmetics.

Things are different on the other side of the Atlantic. In the United States, sunscreen products are considered over-the-counter (OTC) medications. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved only certain ingredients for their use. To be approved, these ingredients must undergo a rigorous evaluation of their safety and efficacy. Benzylidene Camphor Sulfonic Acid has not yet undergone such evaluation by the FDA for use in sunscreens, rendering it unusable in these products.

Find out more about "Inci" cosmetic ingredients