UV filters· in 7 products

Chemical UV filters

Also listed as Organic UV filters, Avobenzone, Homosalate and Octisalate

Strong evidence Set per filter by regulators, e.g. avobenzone up to 3% and homosalate up to 15% in the U.S.

Chemical, or organic, UV filters are carbon-based molecules that absorb UV radiation and release it as a small amount of heat. They allow lightweight, invisible sunscreens and are combined to cover both UVB and UVA.

Shop 7 with chemical uv filters All ingredients

7UvChemical UV filtersUV filters

What it does

The short version.

Each organic filter absorbs a particular band of UV, so sunscreens combine several to reach a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection. In the U.S., avobenzone is the main approved long-UVA filter and is often stabilized with octocrylene. Newer filters available in the EU, Asia and Australia, such as bemotrizinol, bisoctrizole and Uvinul A Plus, are more photostable but are not yet approved in the U.S. FDA-commissioned trials show several U.S. filters are absorbed into the blood above the threshold that triggers further safety testing; absorption does not mean harm, and the FDA and dermatology groups continue to advise sunscreen use.

Strong evidence

UV protection is proven by standardized testing; the FDA has asked manufacturers for more safety data on most organic filters, so their long-term systemic safety is under review rather than shown to be harmful.

In our directory: It’s a key ingredient in 7 products we review, most often sunscreen. Those products are mostly built for uv protection, waterproof and no white cast. In formulas, it most often shares the label with vitamin e, glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

Reach for it for

UV protection No white cast

Usually a good fit for

All skin types Oily skin Combination skin Normal skin Dry skin

How to use it

Getting it right.

Apply about 1/4 teaspoon to the face and neck as the last morning step and reapply every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating.

Layering

Friends & frenemies.

Pairs well with

Zinc oxide Titanium dioxide Vitamin C Vitamin E Niacinamide

Before you start

Some filters, especially oxybenzone and octocrylene, can cause stinging, allergic or photoallergic reactions in a minority of people, and avobenzone can sting near the eyes. Those with sensitive skin may prefer mineral filters. Oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned in some places, such as Hawaii, over reef concerns.

References

Educational, not medical advice. Ingredient guides summarise published research and expert guidance; formulas and concentrations differ between products.