Avobenzone

What exactly?

Also called Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane is one of the most commonly used UVA filters in sunscreens , although it can also be found in hand creams, moisturizers and makeup bases. This sunscreen was approved by the EU in 1978 and by the FDA in 1988. It is approved for use worldwide. 

How does it act?

It is used in cosmetics in order to reduce signs of skin aging generated by ultraviolet radiation . Avobenzone protects from UVA 1 and UVA2 rays, being one of the best UVA filters available in the world, thus being considered “broad spectrum” due to its maximum protection against ultraviolet rays.

Even so, it does not protect against UVB rays on its own since it has been proven that when exposed to the sun it weakens, thus reducing its protection against the sun's rays. It can lose up to 50-90% effectiveness in the first hour of sun exposure. 

Some experts have stated that it is possible to combine it with other filters to extend its protection during sun exposure. 

In the case of this ingredient, it is one of the few filters that does reach the inside of the body through the skin, unlike zinc oxide and titanium oxide that create a barrier on the surface of the skin. Despite this, it has no risks since according to studies, no skin problems were detected and it is free from producing dermatitis . Furthermore, this component does not harm the marine environment.