Octisalate

What exactly?

It is primarily used as a sunscreen agent that absorbs harmful UV-B radiation . This ingredient can be identified in the following ways: 

EHS; 2-ethylhexyl ester, 2-hydroxy-benzoic acid; 2-ethylhexyl ester salicylic acid; ethylhexyl 2-salicylate; ethylhexyl salicylate, 2-ethylhexyl 2-hydroxybenzoate; Benzoic acid 2-hydroxy-2-ethylhexyl ester; benzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, 2-ethylhexyl ester; benzoic acid, 2hydroxy, 2ethylhexyl ester; brn 2730664; einecs 204-263-4 [4]. 

How does it act?

Octisalate works by absorbing UVB rays which protect the skin from severe sunburn and melanoma and helps protect the skin from damage to healthy skin cells and collagen. 

It degrades when exposed to sunlight , so it usually appears with other sunscreen agents and must be applied frequently. It is used to stabilize avobenzone and thus extend sun protection. 

What benefits does it provide?

The alcohol part of the molecule has a fat-like effect on the skin. Therefore, it moisturizes the skin along with sun protection. It protects the skin from damage caused by harmful radiation and reduces dark spots, wrinkles and fine lines that form on the skin . 

As a great benefit, it increases the absorption and duration of sunscreen on the skin, but on the other hand, it can cause allergies. Therefore, it is suitable for all skin types except those with an identified allergy to this ingredient.  

It is safe?

The FDA has found octisalate to be safe in sunscreen formulations, limits its use to 5% in formulations, and is known to cause minimal irritation in some skin types.  

Although this filter is banned in some countries due to its bleaching power on coral reefs as well as the increase in water temperature, its impact on the environment is not that significant.