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Ingredient

Benzophenone-3

Oxybenzone

A UV filter whose permitted concentration in the EU was reduced in 2022 and differs by product type.

  • UV filter

What it is there to do

  • UV filter

    Absorbs or reflects ultraviolet light.

Where this comes up

The notes BeautySignal puts beside this ingredient when it is on a label.

  • Contains UV filters

    This product contains UV filters. Which filters are permitted, and at what concentration, differs between markets.

    Why we mention it

    UV filters are among the most tightly regulated cosmetic ingredients, and the permitted set differs between the EU, the US and elsewhere.

  • Subject to a regulatory restriction

    One or more ingredients in this product are restricted in at least one market. The restriction is usually a concentration limit or a limit on the type of product.

    Why we mention it

    Points at a named instrument rather than implying a general hazard. The specific provision is shown with the ingredient.

What the rules say

Each line names the rule it comes from. A limit is not a warning.

  • EU · Restricted

    Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, Annex VI

    What it sets out

    Limits were tightened in 2022 and differ between face, hand and body products. Check the current annex entry.

What we don't know

  • Where it comes from — plant, mineral, synthetic — isn't recorded.
  • How much of it is used in any particular product. We hold no concentrations at all.

Also written as

  • Oxybenzone

This is information about an ingredient, not medical advice, and not a judgement about any product that contains it. Back to the reference.