What type of UV rays does Avobenzone protect against?

Avobenzone is primarily effective against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and long-term skin damage. It covers the full UVA spectrum, making it a crucial component in broad-spectrum sunscreens.

Why is Avobenzone often combined with other ingredients in sunscreens?

Avobenzone is photounstable and can degrade when exposed to sunlight, reducing its effectiveness. It is typically formulated with photostabilizers to ensure its protective capabilities remain intact throughout sun exposure.

Home › Ingredients › Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane

Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, commonly known as Avobenzone, is an organic chemical UV filter that primarily provides protection against UVA rays. It is one of the few organic filters that effectively covers the entire UVA spectrum. However, it is known to be photounstable, meaning it can degrade when exposed to sunlight, which is why it is often formulated with other photostabilizing ingredients.

Sunscreen filterUV filterVeganEvidence: High

BenefitStrong 3.5 / 4

Uv protection

RiskModerate 1.5 / 4

Irritation

Sensitization

Systemic exposure

Eye irritation

Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.

What it helps with

effective UVA protection
broad UVA spectrum coverage

Things to watch

photounstable, requires stabilizers
potential for skin irritation or sensitization

Pairs well with

Sunscreen Filter — It is often combined with photostabilizers like Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine to prevent its degradation in sunlight and maintain its UVA protection.

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Frequently asked questions

What type of UV rays does Avobenzone protect against?: Avobenzone is primarily effective against UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging and long-term skin damage. It covers the full UVA spectrum, making it a crucial component in broad-spectrum sunscreens.
Why is Avobenzone often combined with other ingredients in sunscreens?: Avobenzone is photounstable and can degrade when exposed to sunlight, reducing its effectiveness. It is typically formulated with photostabilizers to ensure its protective capabilities remain intact throughout sun exposure.