Octyl Methoxycinnamate

CAS Number:

5466-77-3

Chemical / IUPAC Name:

2-Ethylhexyl (2E)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-enoate

INCI Name:

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate

Common Name:

 Octyl Methoxycinnamate, Octinoxate

Molecular Formula:

C18H26O3 .

Molecular Weight:

290.40 g/mol .

 Other Names:

2-Ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate, Octinoxate, Eusolex 2292, Parsol MCX .

Uses:

Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC) is one of the most widely used organic UV filters in sunscreen and personal care products worldwide. It is an oil-soluble liquid that primarily absorbs UVB radiation .

· Sun Protection: The primary use is as a UVB filter in sunscreens, moisturizers, lip balms, and makeup products to protect the skin from sunburn and DNA damage caused by UVB rays (290-320 nm) .

· Photostabilizer: Often combined with other UV filters (like avobenzone) to improve overall photostability and broad-spectrum protection .

· Skin Care & Cosmetics: Found in anti-aging creams, foundations, and daily wear moisturizers with SPF .

Origin:

Octyl Methoxycinnamate is a synthetic organic compound produced by the esterification of methoxycinnamic acid with 2-ethylhexanol . It is not found naturally but is designed to mimic natural cinnamate compounds.

What does  Octyl Methoxycinnamate  do in a formulation?

• UV Absorber / UV Filter: Absorbs UVB radiation (peak absorption at 310 nm) and converts it into harmless heat .
• Photoprotective Agent: Protects skin and hair from UV-induced damage .
• Solubilizer: Helps dissolve other solid UV filters in oil phases .

Safety Profile:

· General Hazard Classification: Considered safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 10% in the USA and up to 7.5% in the EU and other regions .

· Controversy & Environmental Concern: OMC has been detected in water systems and is suspected to be an endocrine disruptor in aquatic life. It is under review by various regulatory bodies regarding its environmental impact .

· Skin Absorption: It is known to be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream, though health agencies generally consider this safe at approved concentrations .

· Photostability: Can degrade when exposed to sunlight, which is why it is often formulated with photostabilizers .

· Irritation & Sensitization: Generally regarded as non-irritating and non-sensitizing at typical use concentrations, though rare allergic reactions have been reported .

· Regulatory Status: Approved in the USA (FDA), EU (CosIng), Japan, and many other countries, with varying concentration limits .

Technical profile: