Ingredient guide
Oxybenzone in Sunscreen
What Oxybenzone does in sunscreen and how it's regulated.
About Oxybenzone
A chemical UV filter found in many sunscreens and SPF-containing cosmetics.
Why brands use it in sunscreen
Effective and inexpensive UV filter that absorbs both UVA and UVB rays. Widely used in sunscreens and SPF-containing lip and face products.
Regulatory status
- US FDA: FDA requested additional safety data in 2019. Approved but under active review. Banned in Hawaii and Key West for reef protection.
- European Union: Not on the EU prohibited list (some ingredients have concentration limits)
- Canada: Not restricted
Common alternatives
Other ingredients formulators use for a similar job in sunscreen:
zinc oxide
titanium dioxide
non-nano mineral sunscreens
red raspberry seed oil (supplementary UV protection)
Oxybenzone in other product types
FAQ
What is Oxybenzone?
A chemical UV filter found in many sunscreens and SPF-containing cosmetics.
Why is Oxybenzone used in sunscreen?
Effective and inexpensive UV filter that absorbs both UVA and UVB rays. Widely used in sunscreens and SPF-containing lip and face products.
How is Oxybenzone regulated?
FDA requested additional safety data in 2019. Approved but under active review. Banned in Hawaii and Key West for reef protection.
Does Numbrrrz lip balm contain Oxybenzone?
No. Numbrrrz is organic coconut oil, organic beeswax, organic jojoba oil and vitamin E, plus organic essential oils or flavoring in the scented versions. That is a formulation choice, not a judgment about other products.
