Oxybenzone in Sunscreen: What You Need to Know

Sunscreen is a vital part of skin protection, but not all sunscreens are created equal. One ingredient that has sparked significant debate in recent years is oxybenzone. Found in many chemical sunscreens, oxybenzone has been praised for its UV-filtering properties but also scrutinized for potential health and environmental concerns. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Oxybenzone?

Oxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-3, is an organic compound used in sunscreens to absorb and filter out UVB and short-wave UVA rays. It helps prevent sunburn and skin damage by converting UV rays into heat, which is then released from the skin.

Due to its broad-spectrum UV protection, oxybenzone has been widely used for decades in both adult and children’s sunscreens, as well as in cosmetics, lip balms, and moisturizers.

Why is Oxybenzone Controversial?

While oxybenzone is effective at preventing UV damage, several concerns have emerged regarding its health impact and environmental footprint.

1. Potential Health Concerns

• Hormonal Disruption: Some laboratory studies suggest that oxybenzone may mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal balance. However, these studies often use high concentrations not typically encountered through normal sunscreen use.
• Skin Allergies: Oxybenzone can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially those with eczema or skin conditions.
• Absorption Into the Body: A 2019 FDA study showed that oxybenzone can be absorbed into the bloodstream at higher-than-expected levels. However, the study did not conclude that these levels are harmful—only that further research is needed.

2. Environmental Impact

• Coral Reef Damage: Research shows that oxybenzone can harm coral reefs by contributing to coral bleaching, DNA damage in marine organisms, and disruption of coral larvae development. As a result, places like Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Palau have banned sunscreens containing oxybenzone.

Regulatory Perspective

• The FDA still allows oxybenzone in sunscreens but has called for more safety data to determine whether it should remain classified as "generally recognized as safe and effective" (GRASE).
• The European Union permits lower concentrations of oxybenzone than the U.S., typically limiting it to up to 6% in cosmetic formulations.

Should You Avoid Oxybenzone?

That depends on your personal preferences and priorities.

• If you have sensitive skin, are pregnant, or are buying sunscreen for young children, you might opt for oxybenzone-free formulas.
• If you're environmentally conscious and swimming in natural bodies of water, choose reef-safe sunscreens with mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
• If your priority is strong, long-lasting UV protection, and you’re not concerned about the potential health risks, oxybenzone-containing products remain a legal and effective option.

Alternatives to Oxybenzone

If you're looking to avoid oxybenzone, check the label for these safer or mineral-based alternatives:

• Zinc Oxide
• Titanium Dioxide
• Avobenzone (often used with stabilizers)
• Mexoryl SX (in some European or La Roche-Posay sunscreens)
• Tinosorb S and M (European-approved ingredients with broad-spectrum coverage)

Look for products labeled “reef-safe,” “oxybenzone-free,” or “mineral sunscreen”