Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane
The details
Also known as Avobenzone, this ingredient is an oil-soluble used to absorb the full spectrum of UVA rays (peak 357 nm). It's one of the most effective UVA filters available but has a major caveat of photostability: avobenzone is susceptible to photodegradation. This means it can lose efficacy when exposed to sunlight without the help of a stabilizing agent. Studies show antioxidants (like vitamin E or vitamin C ) and some UV filters (like octocrylene and Tinosorb S ) can meaningfully improve its stability in a formulation. The maximum allowable concentration according to regulation is 3% in the US + Canada, and 5% in the EU, Australia, China, Korea, and ASEAN countries. It has a well-support safety profile: a comprehensive 2025 review found minimal toxicity with no evidence of carcinogenicity. Overall, avobenzone is a safe and regulated ingredient used in sunscreen for over 40 years.
Found in (3 products)
Also listed as
butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane