Is 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor safe to use?

While effective as a UV filter, concerns about its potential endocrine-disrupting effects have led to restrictions or bans in various countries, and it is not approved for use in the United States.

What kind of UV radiation does 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor protect against?

This ingredient primarily absorbs UVB radiation, which is responsible for sunburn and contributes to skin cancer risk.

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4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor

4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor (4-MBC) is an organic chemical UV filter that primarily absorbs UVB radiation. It is used in sunscreens to protect the skin from sunburn and reduce the risk of sun damage. While effective, its use is restricted or banned in some regions due to potential endocrine-disrupting properties.

Sunscreen filterUV filterVegan

BenefitGood 2.5 / 4

Uv protection i2.5 / 4

Whether it provides direct protection against UV radiation.

RiskHigh 2.8 / 4

Endocrine i2.8 / 4

Whether it has known or suspected hormone-related activity or endocrine-disruption concern.

Systemic exposure i2 / 4

Whether it has meaningful potential to be absorbed into the body at levels that may matter biologically. Most cosmetic ingredients score low unless there is known concern or high exposure.

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

Protects against UVB radiation
Helps prevent sunburn

Things to watch

Potential endocrine disruptor
Restricted or banned in some regions

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Frequently asked questions

Is 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor safe to use?: While effective as a UV filter, concerns about its potential endocrine-disrupting effects have led to restrictions or bans in various countries, and it is not approved for use in the United States.
What kind of UV radiation does 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor protect against?: This ingredient primarily absorbs UVB radiation, which is responsible for sunburn and contributes to skin cancer risk.