UV Filter
ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
An organic UVB sunscreen filter (octinoxate). Effective and EU-approved up to 10%, but endocrine-disruption signals and coral-reef toxicity have led to bans in some regions.
Function
Skin benefits
- Effective UVB filter
- Photostable when paired with quenchers
- Easy to formulate
- Approved in EU up to 10%
Known concerns
- Endocrine disruption signals in animal studies
- Coral-reef harm — banned in Hawaii/Palau
- Possible hormone-related effects
- SCCS reduced safe limit consideration
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry: regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
PubChem
U.S. NIH compound data, GHS hazard codes and toxicity literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers in plain language
Is ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate banned in Europe?
No. Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (also known as octinoxate or octyl methoxycinnamate) is permitted in EU cosmetics as a UV filter at concentrations up to 10%, listed in Annex VI of Regulation (EC) 1223/2009. The SCCS most recently reviewed it in 2021 and concluded the current limit remains safe. Some non-EU jurisdictions including Hawaii, Palau and Key West have restricted it over coral reef toxicity concerns, but EU law continues to allow its use.
What are the side effects of ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate?
Reported concerns include possible endocrine activity (reviewed by the SCCS in 2021, which concluded the existing 10% limit remains safe), rare contact allergy, and environmental persistence in marine ecosystems. For most users at typical sunscreen concentrations, no acute side effects are expected. People with very sensitive skin should patch test before broad use.
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve, so always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.