Description
Benzophenone-3 is a benzophenone derivative, belonging to the chemical class of hydroxylated and methoxylated aromatic ketones. Its declared technical function in CosIng is that of light stabilizer, UV absorber and UV filter. Ingredients of this class, in the general cosmetic context, are characterized by their capacity to absorb radiation in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum, being applied both for protecting the user against solar radiation and for stabilizing the cosmetic formulation against photochemical degradation of other components. Among its associated denominations is the INN oxybenzone.
Under Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009, the ingredient is listed in Annex VI, reference 4, which covers authorized UV filters. The maximum authorized concentrations are: "a) 6%", "b) 2,2%" and "c) 0,5%", depending on the type of product: (a) face, hand and lip products, excluding propellant spray and pump spray products; (b) body products, including propellant spray and pump spray products; (c) other products. As other conditions, the following applies: "If used at 0,5 % to protect product formulation, the levels used as UV filter must not exceed 5,5 %" in case (a) and "If used at 0,5 % to protect product formulation, the levels used as UV filter must not exceed 1,7 %" in case (b). For (a) and (b), the labelling warning "Contains Benzophenone-3" is mandatory, and is not required when the concentration is equal to or less than 0.5% and the substance is used exclusively to protect the product. The ingredient is not classified as CMR.
The applicable cosmetic restriction is VI/4. The information presented is for technical reference only and does not constitute a recommendation for use or an efficacy claim.