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Benzophenone-4: UV Filter in Cosmetics

Benzophenone-4 is a synthetic UV filter used in sunscreens and cosmetics to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

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Things worth knowing about "Benzophenone-4"

Benzophenone-4 is a synthetic UV filter used in sunscreens and cosmetics to protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

What is Benzophenone-4?

Benzophenone-4 (also known as Sulisobenzone or BP-4) is a synthetic UV filter belonging to the benzophenone chemical class. It is a water-soluble photoprotective agent widely used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. In the European Union, Benzophenone-4 is approved as a UV filter in cosmetic products at concentrations of up to 10%.

Mechanism of Action

Benzophenone-4 works by absorbing ultraviolet radiation in both the UVA and UVB ranges (typically 270–350 nm). The molecule captures high-energy UV radiation and converts it into harmless heat energy before it can penetrate into deeper layers of the skin. This process reduces light-induced cellular damage such as DNA strand breaks and oxidative stress.

Applications

Benzophenone-4 is used in a wide variety of products, including:

Sunscreens (creams, sprays, lotions)
Day creams and SPF-containing make-up
Hair care products to prevent UV-induced color fading
Cosmetic formulations for stabilizing other UV-sensitive ingredients

Safety and Tolerability

When used as directed, Benzophenone-4 is generally considered safe. However, there are several safety aspects to be aware of:

Allergic Potential

In some individuals, Benzophenone-4 may cause contact allergies or photoallergic reactions. A photocontact allergy occurs when the substance triggers an allergic response on the skin upon UV exposure. People with known hypersensitivity to benzophenones should avoid products containing this ingredient.

Systemic Absorption

Studies have shown that Benzophenone-4 can be absorbed through the skin in small amounts and detected in the body. However, current assessments by the European Commission and the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) consider the systemic exposure at approved concentrations to be safe for consumers.

Environmental Considerations

Like other benzophenones, Benzophenone-4 is suspected of being harmful to aquatic ecosystems. Residues have been detected in waterways and marine organisms. Environmentally conscious consumers may prefer mineral UV filters (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) as an alternative.

Regulatory Status

In the European Union, Benzophenone-4 is listed in Annex VI of the EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 as an approved UV filter, with a maximum concentration of 10% in the finished product. In some countries, particularly in certain US states and Hawaii (under marine protection legislation), specific chemical UV filters face stricter restrictions.

References

Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS): Opinion on Benzophenone-4 and Benzophenone-5. SCCS/1501/12. European Commission, 2012.
EU Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council, Annex VI – List of UV filters allowed in cosmetic products.
Krause M. et al.: Sunscreens: are they beneficial for health? An overview of endocrine disrupting properties of UV-filters. International Journal of Andrology, 2012; 35(3): 424–436.

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