Octyl methoxycinnamate
Template:Chembox new Octyl methoxycinnamate (INCI), or octinoxate (USAN), is an organic compound that is an ingredient in some sunscreens and lip balms. It is an ester formed from methoxycinnamic acid and 2-ethylhexanol. It is a clear liquid that is insoluble in water.
Its primary use is in suncreens and other cosmetics to absorb UV-B rays from the sun, protecting the skin from damage. It is also used to reduce to appearance of scars.
Safety studies
One study performed in 2000 raised safety concerns about octyl methoxycinnamate by demonstrating toxicity to mouse cells at concentrations lower than typical levels in sunscreens.[1] However, a more recent study concluded that octyl methoxycinnamate and other sun screening agents do not penetrate the outer skin in sufficient concentration to cause any significant toxicity to the underlying human keratinocytes.[2]
Estrogenic effects were noted in laboratory animals at concentrations close to those experienced by sunscreen users.[3]
See also
- Cinoxate, another cinnamic acid based sunscreen ingredient
- sunscreen controversy
References
- ^ Sinister side of sunscreens, Rob Edwards, New Scientist, 07 October 2000
- ^ Hayden, C. G. J.; Cross, S. E.; Anderson, C.; Saunders, N. A.; Roberts, M. S. (2005). "Sunscreen Penetration of Human Skin and Related Keratinocyte Toxicity after Topical Application". Skin Pharmacology and Physiology. 18 (4): 170–174. doi:10.1159/000085861.
{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link) - ^ Skin deep Cosmetics Database