Product: Octocrylene
Rchem Octocrylene is a high-purity, oil-soluble liquid chemical (organic) UV filter, presented as a clear, viscous liquid. This versatile and photostable ingredient is a cornerstone of modern sunscreen formulations, renowned for its ability to primarily absorb UVB and short UVA rays. Beyond its own filtering capabilities, it is highly valued for its exceptional role as a photostabilizer for other UV filters, particularly Avobenzone, ensuring that sunscreen formulations maintain their protective power throughout sun exposure.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
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Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the primary function of Octocrylene in a sunscreen?
Its primary functions are twofold: 1) UV Absorption: It acts as a UVB and short UVA filter. 2) Photostabilization: It is most renowned for its critical role in stabilizing other UV filters, especially Avobenzone, preventing them from degrading in sunlight and thus maintaining the sunscreen's overall SPF and UVA protection over time.
Octocrylene is a chemical (organic) filter. It works by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into a negligible amount of heat, unlike mineral filters (Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide) which primarily reflect and scatter UV light.
Is Octocrylene considered a "chemical" or "mineral" sunscreen filter?
It is a workhorse ingredient due to its triple threat of benefits: it provides its own UV filtration, it is an essential stabilizer for key UVA filters, and it improves the cosmetic elegance (texture, spreadability) of the final product. This makes it extremely difficult to replace in high-SPF, broad-spectrum, and cosmetically elegant formulations.
Why is Octocrylene so commonly found in sunscreen formulations?
While generally well-tolerated by most, Octocrylene has been identified as a potential contact allergen for a small subset of the population, particularly with repeated exposure. It is also a known cause of eye stinging. Formulators should conduct appropriate safety and compatibility testing.
Can Octocrylene cause skin irritation or allergies?
Store in a cool, dark place. It is a viscous liquid, so gentle warming may be required for easier handling and dispensing. It should be incorporated into the oil phase of the emulsion. As a powerful solvent, it can degrade certain types of plastics and spf applicators, so packaging compatibility should be verified. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for comprehensive handling and safety information.
